Close to Home: The Wonders of Nature Just Outside Your Door

by Thor Hanson

An award-winning natural-history writer opens the door to the nature that thrives in our yards, gardens, and parks 
 
We all live on nature’s doorstep, but we often overlook it. From backyards to local parks, the natural places we see the most may well be the ones we know the least.  
 
In Close to Home, biologist Thor Hanson shows how retraining our eyes reveals hidden wonders just waiting to be discovered. In Kansas City, migrating monarch butterflies flock to the local zoo. In the Pacific Northwest, fierce yellowjackets placidly sip honeydew, unseen in the treetops. In New England, a lawn gone slightly wild hosts a naturalist's life's work. And in the soil beneath our feet, remedies for everything from breast cancer to the stench of skunks lie waiting for someone’s searching shovel.   
 
Close to Home is a hands-on natural history for any local patch of Earth. It shows that we each can contribute to science and improve the health of our planet. And even more, it proves that the wonders of nature don’t lie in some far-off they await us, close to home. 

Genres: Nature, Nonfiction, Science, Animals, Audiobook, Environment, Biology

304 pages, Hardcover

First published March 11, 2025

About the author

Thor Hanson is a Guggenheim Fellow, a Switzer Environmental Fellow, and winner of the John Burroughs Medal. His books include CLOSE TO HOME, HURRICANE LIZARDS AND PLASTIC SQUID, BUZZ, THE TRIUMPH OF SEEDS, FEATHERS, THE IMPENETRABLE FOREST, and the children's favorites THE ESCAPE ARTIST, STAR & THE MAESTRO, AND BARTHOLOMEW QUILL . Learn more at his website (www.thorhanson.net), or connect for a conversation at Skolay (www.skolay.com/writers/thorhanson).

Reviews

[Camelia Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

An urban ecology book. It covers plants, animals (birds and insects), and fungi, and how each is impacted by the environment humans create, how they adapt, although in a limited degree and at a much slower pace than the speed their habitat is being altered. In turn, the book also discusses the things we can do to reduce our negative impact.

Nature is my medicine. Glad I have been a heavy user of iNatualist since the Covid pandemic and recently I started using Cornell Lab of Ornithology App.

[Edie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book about doing science in your own backyard. It shares a sensibility with On Looking by Alexandra Horowitz, even though the subject matter is quite different. I've already insisted on buddy-reading this with a friend and I am suggesting it to my gardening book club. If you are looking for an accessible book on the natural sciences - this is for you! It is easy to read, easy to follow, and endlessly fascinating. Thor Hanson tells us about his own and others' science experiments, about community involvement and impact on scientific research, and inspires us to get involved, to start noticing what is outside our own door. He talks about famous scientists and the work they did using what was at hand. I am absolutely planning a moth sheet night once the weather warms up. I listened to the audio. Stacy Carolan's narration was so natural I honestly forgot it wasn't the author reading it himself. Thank you to the author, narrator, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for the audioARC.

[Katie Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thor Hanson's newest book, Close To Home, walks (and sometimes crawls-no joke) readers through, the often hidden in plain sight, intricate webs of biodiversity existing in his own backyard. Hanson showcases his backyard as a living metaphor for the wondrous organisms we can all find in our varying 'backyards'. He uses the relatable term backyard to describe the nature found at our own doorstep, local parks, and urban gardens. Highlighting how accessible it is for everyone to witness life in nature—even if you don't have your own backyard!

This book was exactly what I needed in moments of despair for our hurting planet. It made me realize that I don't have to travel to exotic places to see 'cool' things in nature because it already exists in my own backyard. I also realized that my own backyard needs my (our) help! I feel so encouraged to help and protect my fellow critter neighbors' habitats!

[Abeer Arain · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is definitely interesting. However, the author kept one eye closed throughout - meaning that he talked about nature and its wonders, but not about the One who created everything.
3 stars because of the author's belief in the fake theory of 'evolution.'

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I will start with the positive. I appreciated the research and efforts to promote a backyard environmentalist mindset--who can argue with that? I hate to insert this here, I really do: BUT. But, but, but...hmm. BUT:

There is not so much as a flinch let alone a nod and a footnote to the local Native American tribes that most definitely lived on the Washington State island that the writer lives on (that he refuses to name) as his "backyard" who have GENERATIONS of firsthand knowledge about everything the writer pretends to discover in his backyard, as a white male for the sake of this book. Why isn't this even briefly addressed? Well, why indeed.

And here's the thing. In this day and age of information, we at least need to acknowledge that tribes were screwed off the land (Thanks Isaac Stevens!) and if you don’t want to do that then at least respect that they knew more about the land than we do now instead of play-acting Christopher Columbus in our backyards, particularly if you are writing a book pretending to be a pioneering discoverer of a backyard that a whole culture before you had a better understanding of for generations. It just reads as kinda delusional to me.

If I were reading this from a WA Native American perspective, I would have a real problem with how some of the information in this book is presented. For example, page 101: “there must have been a time when people were far more familiar with the flavors of droplets on vegetation.” Yeah. No shit. Insert reference to Native American culture here.

And then the author’s reference to every other foreign culture that has contributed to a nature-based mindset –Chinese, Middle Eastern, European, foreign native tribes…sometimes all within the same page. And still…no reference at all to the Native American knowledge of the land he’s living on. (It’s no wonder why he has owls attacking him in his own backyard.)

If all of these dependent biological components referenced within the last chapters have the power to influence one another within an ecosystem, what has been the impact of the loss of Native American tribes living close to the land on these ecosystems? Why are their insights, culture, and history being OMITTED from all of this…yet again?

[Cam Jury · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 stars. Ronnie picked this one out for me (so sweet) and I really did enjoy but I think I read it at a time where my brain was not ready for nonfiction and I found it hard to keep my attention. I think it jumped around a bit and I wish it went a bit deeper on more things, but overall had some super interesting parts and was a cool and special concept to write and think on. Big fan of the scientific illustrations as well :) def will be passing off to my dad!

[Sarah (sarahanneisreading) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[David Haskell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Packed with inspiration and insight, the wonders of the living world are vividly revealed in this beautifully crafted invitation to curiosity and exploration.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Biologist Thor Hanson encourages readers to look for all the nature they can find Close to Home. If you stop and actually look around, you'll be surprised just how much is going on in any given natural space around you. Hanson uses his own backyard in the Pacific Northwest to show how promoting biodiversity with both plants, animals/insects, and landscape can turn the average backyard into a natural wonder. The book is divided into three sections - seeing, exploring, and restoring. In the "exploring" section he really gets into all the ways to explore nature around you including focusing on what's above, below, in any nearby bodies of water, and nighttime. Throughout the book he gives other examples from around the world of how scientists made discoveries in small, often urban settings. His two main focuses are "citizen science" where everyday citizens can report on their local nature data to help scientists work on larger data/papers/discoveries and "backyard biology" - basically not going to a destination to look at nature but encouraging it in our own backyards or nearby nature spots. The book is a good mix of science and general nonfiction that would appeal to many readers. There are a few black and white photos or illustrations throughout the book but I would love to see a section of color photos of the author's backyard and some of the habitats he explores in the book. Overall, a great read that will inspire you to look more closely at all the nature that's around you.

Some quotes I liked:

"Too often our observation of birds - or any other wildlife - end at the moment of recognition. We look just long enough to see what something is, and then turn away, neglecting to ask the next logical (and arguably more interesting) question: What is it doing? To really understand what is happening in the natural world, we need to pay attention to behavior. That's not always easy. Watching closely takes time, a precious commodity that is often hard to spare..." (p. 75)

"Urban ecology is now considered a distinct field of study, focused on the many adaptations springing up in built environments that simply don't occur anywhere else...a growing number of studies have documented local species embracing new habits, from bats and birds feasting on insects at streetlights to brushtail possums, stone martens, and chipmunks denning in artificial structures." (p. 87-88)

[anchi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who would have known that there are so many things happening in our yard (garden, or any outdoor space)! Thor Hanson, author of The Triumph of Seeds: How Grains, Nuts, Kernels, Pulses, and Pips Conquered the Plant Kingdom and Shaped Human History and Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees, takes us on several tours to explore the nature we usually overlook in our neighborhood.

This audiobook is both interesting and informative, and it inspires me to pay more attention to my surroundings from now on - maybe we all can discover something new one day. I particularly enjoyed how he mentioned various research studies, providing great information about animals and nature. The narrator also did a great job, making this book perfect to listen to while taking a walk in the neighborhood.

My thanks to the publisher, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for early access to the audiobook.

[Karen_RunwrightReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the message of this book that it is possible to observe the world and even change it positively, without leaving home, that there is a lot to take note of and learn from in your present environment. The studies that this biologist carries out in his own backyard, are inspiring.
I appreciated how he cited other scientists whose work he incorporated into his own research, to give a more practical study and guide for his readers can better explore nature.
However, it feels like the author nods to other famous scientists and authors but not as much to the native societies from whom we have also learned a lot.
There was an anecdote early in the book that mentioned a Masters student in Uganda who paid a native guide to help him locate a nest of bees and got a lesson in the value of observation. While it underscored the need for really seeing our surroundings, I think Close To Home could have emphasized more fully, the other people with whom we share resources, and the wealth of their understanding of the natural world as well.

[Me, My Shelf, & I · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a good reason why Thor Hanson's such a popular non-fiction author and charismatic expert: his enthusiasm for scientific research and discoveries is contagious.

This non-fiction is all about the numerous discoveries that can be made without anything more than time, observational focus, and curiosity about the world around you. I think this would probably be too complex for children younger than high school level or maybe middle school, but would be a great companion to go through as a family and take the stories to heart to encourage kids to feel empowered to be active scientists in their environment.

Hell! I'm currently stuck in the middle of a very paved over city and I'm a little bit enthused to get out there lol.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever looked closely at the insects, amphibians, lichen, mushrooms and other forms of life crawling and growing around your home? Thor Hanson has, but he is far from the first to do so. I learned that Charles Darwin, except for his one memorable trip aboard The Beagle, never left his country estate yet continued to contribute his scientific observations and theories for decades. Gregor Mendel famously discovered the laws of inheritance by cross-breeding pea plants in a small garden patch. Hanson tells of backyard naturalists around the globe who have made significant discoveries and aided scientists in understanding the current state of various species. I was aware of the annual bird count in the US, but there are also sunflower bee counts and many other “events” and places to post images.
This is a fascinating and well researched book about nature all around us and especially ways we can participate. I must say Mr Hanson also comes across as the ideal grandfather (Pops in his case), with lots of nature walks, backyard camping, and getting down on all fours to crawl and see things at the eye level of a fox. His sense of humor comes through without trying too hard. The audiobook narrator strikes the right tone as well.
Big Agriculture has ruined a lot of habitat through the practice of monoculture farming. This book points a way for us to help the planet by “wilding” our yards to support more of nature’s diversity. I’m all for it, but with a grain of salt as moles are currently digging tunnels under our lawn and leaving actual molehills everywhere…. Perhaps I need to make the yard more habitable for a fox?
My thanks to the author, publisher, @HachetteAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #ClosetoHome for review purposes. Publication date: 11 March 2025.

[Nadine · Rating 4 out of 5]

An informative book by Thor Hanson taking you through the world of the importance all the things happening in your yard that you don’t take the time to observe. He shares many studies and developments that have come from vegetation occurring around us. Stacey Carolan committed to the narration and keeps you engaged and wondering to topic that usually wouldn’t hold my interest. I did have higher expectations this book following the first chapter when he talks about the positive effects Covid had on nature due to less emissions, etc. I was hopefully for more ideas of what we can do but main one I got was keep a natural area in your yard to help the insects continue to thrive. Definitely a read I wouldn’t normally choose but thanks to Net Galley and Hachette Audio I was able to enjoy this advanced copy of this audiobook.

[KDub · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up to 5

Close to Home by Thor Hanson is a nonfiction book about noticing the nature around you in yards, parks, gardens, and more. All over the US, the spotlight is put on the behavior of various plants, animals, and fungi. This is a short and fascinating read that makes you want to take a closer look outside in your own backyard!

I listened to the audiobook which is narrated by Stacy Carolan. He does a fantastic job at speaking clearly and is easy to understand.

Recommended for anyone interested in the outdoors/nature and learning more about the world around us.

Thank you Hachette Audio and NetGalley for the ALC.

[Sarah Jensen]

Book Review: Close to Home: The Wonders of Nature Just Outside Your Door by Thor Hanson

Introduction

In Close to Home: The Wonders of Nature Just Outside Your Door, Thor Hanson invites readers to explore the natural world in their immediate vicinity, emphasizing the beauty and complexity of local ecosystems. As a renowned biologist and author, Hanson draws on his extensive knowledge of nature to inspire a deeper appreciation for the often-overlooked wonders that exist in everyday surroundings. This book serves as both a field guide and a philosophical reflection on the significance of nature in our lives.

Content Overview

Hanson’s work is structured around several key themes that highlight the importance of connection to the natural world. The book begins with a discussion of biodiversity and the ecological systems present in our backyards, parks, and urban settings. Through vivid descriptions and engaging anecdotes, Hanson illustrates how diverse species interact within these environments, making complex ecological concepts accessible to a broad audience.

In subsequent chapters, Hanson delves into specific elements of nature, such as plants, insects, and birds, providing readers with detailed observations and insights. Each chapter not only showcases the beauty of these organisms but also emphasizes their roles in the ecosystem. For instance, he reveals how the presence of a single species can affect the entire ecological balance, urging readers to observe and appreciate these interconnections.

Hanson’s narrative style is both informative and lyrical, combining scientific knowledge with personal reflections on his experiences in nature. He encourages readers to step outside and engage with their surroundings, framing this connection as not just beneficial for personal wellness but essential for environmental stewardship.

Critical Analysis

One of the book’s greatest strengths is Hanson’s ability to make science relatable and engaging. His enthusiasm for the natural world is infectious, and his prose is peppered with humor and personal stories that draw readers in. The book also effectively balances scientific rigor with a narrative approach, making it a valuable resource for both lay readers and those with a more substantial background in ecology.

Hanson’s focus on local nature is particularly timely in an era where global environmental issues often overshadow the importance of local ecosystems. By encouraging readers to appreciate the life outside their doors, he fosters a sense of responsibility toward the environment, instilling the idea that small actions can lead to significant positive changes.

However, some readers may find that while the book excels in celebrating local biodiversity, it could benefit from a more in-depth examination of specific conservation challenges faced by these ecosystems. Discussing the impacts of urbanization, climate change, and pollution in more detail could enhance the urgency of the message and provide readers with actionable steps for advocacy and conservation.

Conclusion

Close to Home: The Wonders of Nature Just Outside Your Door is a celebration of the natural world that underscores the importance of observing and valuing local biodiversity. Thor Hanson’s engaging writing and insightful observations encourage readers to reconnect with nature, fostering a deeper understanding of ecological relationships and the significance of environmental stewardship. This book is an essential read for nature enthusiasts, educators, and anyone seeking to cultivate a greater appreciation for the wonders that exist just outside their doorstep.

Recommendation

This book is highly recommended for academic libraries, environmental studies programs, and general readers interested in nature writing and ecology. Its interdisciplinary approach makes it suitable for a wide audience, including students, educators, and casual readers alike, ensuring that Close to Home will inspire many to step outside and explore the natural beauty in their immediate surroundings.

[Ida]

I don't put stars on my reviews for reasons. That said, I highly recommend everyone read this book.

Thor Hanson is a biologist who wants to let us know we are all part of nature and that wonders are all around us. We don't have to go farther than the nearest patch of green outside our doors, whether that be our own yard or a city park, to make discoveries and experience awe-inspiring biodiversity. The more we experience it, the more we will want to protect it.

He spends a lot of time describing the amazing variety he encounters within 100 feet of his house. This is interspersed with accounts of other naturalists who have increased our knowledge of the natural world simply by going outside and being observant. He has a real facility for describing plants, animals, fungi, and even air in a way that brings it to life on the page.

Hanson recounts many of the citizen science efforts currently underway, in which the scientists carrying out research projects are aided by everyday people all over the world reporting their observations. Things like iNaturalist.

The best news I read here was that efforts such as Homegrown National Parks really are making a positive difference in restoring biodiversity. It's a relief to me to learn that any monarchs coming to my personal milkweed patch aren't being lured away from a spot that might actually be healthier for them. Butterflies going to yards are faring as well as those going to prairie expanses.

There's also a lot of fascinating information to geek out about. As much life is going on below ground as above it. Worldwide, there are more than 12,000 varieties of wasps. I had no idea.

Passages of note:
"My wife's grandparents lived for decades in a shoreline cabin built from beach logs, where the family still gathers for holidays and special occasions. Among the keepsakes and photos pinned to the wall, a faded, handwritten note reads: Environmentally, the most radical thing you can do is stay home'"

"This book follows the three themes that have been my guideposts, and that lie at the heart of backyard biology everywhere: seeing (how to look), exploring (where to look), and restoring (how to help.)

"Taxonomists, the scientists charged with identifying and cataloging new species, put the number of unknown and undescribed moth varieties in North America at more than 2,000."

"Yes, the final steps in deterring new species require expertise, but anyone can gather the data and make the observations that get the process started. In Europe, for example, amateur naturalists contributed to 62 percent of all new species descriptions published from 1998 to 2007."

"...plants and animals face daunting threats on our warming, crowded planet, particularly in a society that seems increasingly disconnected from the natural world. But unlike most global challenges, this one can be addressed--in part, at least--right on our very doorsteps. When it comes to protecting biodiversity, the work begins at home."

[Nina · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book seemed like a good concept… backyard biology from a biologist in the PNW. He specifically says an Island in Washington State. Judging from what he says in the book, him living in a temperate rainforest environment with Douglas firs making up the most of his island, I’d say he lives in Orcas Island.

Anyway, he encourages us to observe nature in our backyard. Something Darwin did the rest of his life after visiting the Galápagos Islands. We can observe birds, bees, squirrels and bats. And if you are lucky to have a pond, amphibians and dragonflies. There is daytime activity but nighttime activity is discouraged through our evolution. When we stay close to the light and don’t wander in the dark, we tend to survive longer, evolutionary.

Anyhoo, he encourages us to become citizen biologists, using iNaturalist to record data for scientists, plant native plants and let areas of our yard go in mowed. He says this biodiversity makes us happier and healthier. He cites a study that says patients recover from surgery better if their window faces suburban trees as opposed to a brick wall.

I didn’t really appreciate this book as much as Good Nature or Open-Air Life. Any Sy Montgomery books will do too. Men really have nothing to add to the discussion anymore; read women authors.

[Nicole D Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a great exploration of PNW plant and animal life, and discussion of backyard nature in general. For me, it was a bit like preaching to the choir since I have a master's degree in Urban Environmental Education, but it was still informative and I learned some new and interesting facts. It was organized by micro biomes, or small, distinct habitats, in Hanson's yard. For example, he explored the soil, the tree tops, the pond, and the salmonberry thicket separately.
I like that he mentions citizen science (aka community science) projects like bio blitzes and iNaturalist. I think the book could be more accessible if he talked more about public spaces like parks or p-patches, or even balcony gardens- not everyone has a yard to investigate, and I can see how lots of people would not be able to relate to those experiences or his advice of observing your own backyard if you don't have one.
That being said, there were some inspiring quotes:
"...human-dominated landscapes can and must become better habitat if we are to counter the loss of biodiversity in our rapidly changing world".
"When it comes to protecting biodiversity, the work begins at home."
This book inspired me to go out and buy 3 nesting boxes for the trees in our front yard. There's currently a wren nesting in the shed, and I know more would love here if there were safe places for them.

[Karen Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not a book for "thinking outside the box" but a book for "thinking in your own box" or rather in your own backyard! Hanson shows us how impactful we all can be by simply taking the time to notice what is all around us. This book is full of scientific data and observations such as how Canadian geese continue to migrate through the skies at night by using the constellations and landmarks to navigate. Or how to use red light to observe frog behavior at night or place nesting boxes on our property to support birds, and so much more. As we begin to realize the multitude of organisms in the immediate areas around our homes and places of work, we begin to appreciate what a miracle it all is. Hanson takes things much further and encourages us to become "citizen scientists" to help create environments that encourage animals and plants simply by leaving parts of our yards wild. There are so many things we, as fellow travelers on this planet, can do to support our ecosystems. I was blown away by this book and am so inspired to begin doing my part in my corner of the world.

[Annika]

A gentle reminder that staying at home is powerful and good for both yourself and the world. Close to Home explores the beauty and wonder of nature that you can find just outside of your door. Hanson talks about his experience with sitting outside and taking the time to be quiet and observe the patterns of animals and plants all around him. He dives into some of the scientific breakthroughs that have come from backyard data collectors (non-scientists who send photos or soil samples to researchers from their own observations in their backyards or neighborhoods) that never would have been found without people who had an interest in their immediate outdoor surroundings. It was really neat learning about different global websites that were created to get people connected with nature and turned into massive databases for researchers who were studying migration patterns, population patterns, etc. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and I’ll keep in mind all the important scientific breakthroughs (past and present) that happen in people’s backyards.

[Farah G · Rating 3 out of 5]

Most of us have become so detached from our natural environment that we have more or less become resigned to that realisation. In the process, we often fail to appreciate the elements of nature that are still available for us to explore in wonder and fascination.

Sometimes, these options are sitting at our very doorstep. Quite literally! And through this book, Hanson considers how we can not just take a closer look and gain a better understanding of how the natural world functions, but also, how dependent humanity is on the gifts of nature - and what part we can each play in conserving the natural resources that surround us.

Informative and fascinating, this book allows us to see the world as a naturalist does, enabling us each to appreciate the value of what we have in the form of local habitat in this marvelous planet that we inhabit. It gets 3.5 stars.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Emma Sotomayor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hanson, though writing during the COVID pandemic, challenges readers even now to get outside and explore the wonders of nature in their own backyards. He examines different parts of an ecosystem in one's own yard, discussing fascinating creatures that you might never notice unless you stop to see the beauty of the world around you. Additionally, he offers suggestions for how people can support nature conservation with little acts such as planting wildflower gardens or making birdhouses.

I really enjoyed how Hanson directed the reader's attention to oft-overlooked parts of nature, such as flies or types of fungi. It helped me to stop and think more carefully about everything I see in nature, whether it's in the grass of a suburban area or the darkest cave I might be exploring. Truly a gem of a book that inspired me to appreciate nature even more and work to spread those tools of observation so that others too might enjoy and cherish it!

[Meepspeeps · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful book full of information and ideas to contribute to biodiversity where we live. While the author acknowledges that the many peeps who live without a backyard can still participate, the primary focus is on backyards. He mentions local parks, courtyards, and other small green spaces for observation. “Recognizing the different plants and animals in our environment was once a fundamental part of the human experience - an evolutionary survival skill… ‘we’ve been severed from that, but we’re still really good at it,’” “In contrast to such global and seemingly intractable crises, the gains we make close to home can be counted bee by bee, blossom by blossom, and bird by bird.” I recommend it to everyone who wants to know more about the biodiversity in their midst.

[Paola Suarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring and practical

I read this book while participating in a local ecochallenge. During the challenge we were asked to download the inaturalist app and help identify "weeds" that local pollinators love. I really enjoyed that experience. Now after reading this book I feel even more motivated to continue using inaturalist and doing whatever else I can to be part of the solution when it comes to climate change. This book was full of facts and great personalities. I highlighted it so much. I had to stop sharing highlights with my husband and told him he needs to read the book himself. 😂

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. Not my usual genre, but the title and cute cover (and the fact that it was "available now" on Libby and only 6 hours) drew me in when I was in just the right mood.

I loved how Thor celebrated the ordinary and made it magical. This book has definitely caused me to muse over my own yard and how I want to approach our outside time this summer.

I would recommend the audio for this. I don't think I would have been as captivated with a hard copy (just my preference for this genre).

[Timur Hakan Barak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Etrafımızın ne kadar da farklı habitatlarla dolu olduğunu, biyoçeşitliliğin sadece araştırıcılar tarafından araştırılarak ortaya konabilmesinin mümkün olmayacağı kadar zengin olduğu ve bilimsel araştırma yapmak için illa ki çok sofistike araçlara ihtiyaç olmadığı, herkesin kendi çevresine farklı bir gözle bakarak böyle çalışmalara destek olabileceğini gösteren çok keyifli bir okumaydı. Sonunda vatandaş bilimini destekleyen internet siteleri seçkisi de herkesin ilgi alanına göre kullanabileceği zengin kaynaklar sunuyor.

[Nancy Vollmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most delightful and inspiring

I began serendipitously and haphazardly wilding an area in my back yard several years ago when heavy rainfall washed poppy seeds into a recently cleared area. It’s now a full fledged meadow of mostly annuals.
Hanson's book is an inspiration to continue and begin converting another area and to add more natives.
It's readable, humorous and altogether fascinating — what wonders exist everywhere.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book. This my second Thor Hanson book and I just love his curiosity of nature. Although my curiosity of my backyard is not as extensive as Hanson’s, I have come to love and explore all of the birds, lizards, bugs, squirrels, fungi, trees and plants of my yard. What a wonderful ecosystem I have outside my house! As I’ve gotten older, being around nature has become my happy place, and I hope to take some of Hanson’s suggestions to improve my backyard habitat.

[Casey Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun audiobook! I’ve been finding nonfiction books easier to digest in audio format. I think this was a great book about the wonders of our own backyards and it gave me lots to think about when I’m outside in mine now. It also has a lot of good ideas for how you can work on paying more attention in your yard in order to learn more and realize how much is really going on in even a small environment.