Alaska Literary Field Guide: Art, Ecology, Poetry

by Marybeth Holleman, Marybeth Holleman, Shaelene Moler

"The bountiful abundance of this wild collection is artfully packed for a bush plane flight through head and heart." -- J. Drew Lanham, author of The Home Place

Highlights more than 90 species of flora and fauna from a variety of ecosystems Includes writings and original artwork in a wide range of styles from diverse Alaskan voices and artists Every entry features an informative, science-based natural history, including traditional knowledge

Alaska Literary Field Guide is a vibrant and immersive celebration of Alaska’s wild beauty, blending science, storytelling, and stunning artwork. This unique anthology brings together a diverse range of the state’s most respected contemporary poets and writers--including Kim Heacox, Seth Kantner, dg nanouk okpik, Heather Lende, and Frank Soos--alongside original, full-color artwork from 19 Alaskan visual artists such as Alvin Amason, Ray Troll, Sara Tabbert, and rising talents like Valisa Higman and Crystal Jackson.

More than 90 species and natural elements--from grizzly bears and glaciers to lichens, loons, and the aurora borealis--are brought to life through poetic reflections, vivid prose, and detailed scientific natural histories. Each "Being" is paired with a piece of writing and illustration that captures its essence, while also offering cultural knowledge, ecological context, and insight into population health and environmental threats.

Organized by ecosystem, Alaska Literary Field Guide is both an artistic tribute and an educational invitation to connect with the land, water, wildlife, and spirit of the Last Frontier. It’s a field guide like no other--both a reference and a work of art.

Genres: Poetry, Nonfiction

336 pages, Paperback

Published February 23, 2026

Reviews

[Preslee Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book!! I went to Alaska for my undergraduate (Juneau) and fell in love with it. I studied marine biology and honestly am thankful everyday for what’s it taught me. I wouldn’t have had the same experience if I stayed in California, the people I met and the Alaskan frontier will always have a special place with me. Honestly can’t wait to move back one day.

Shaelene Grace Moler was in my graduating class and she’s a phenomenal writer, editor, and photographer for all things Alaska. This book is a composition of contemporary poetry mixed with natural history of Alaska’s landscapes and wildlife. It’s been a few years since I’ve been back to Alaska and this book reminds me how beautiful and vast Alaska is.

I’ll always continue to support local writers, poets, editors, and artists from Alaska :) 🫶

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book to savor.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

(full disclosure: I'm a contributor to this gorgeous book, so perhaps biased)

[Stephanie Kesler · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute gem - every Alaskan should have this on their bookshelf. The art, the writing, and the field descriptions are superb. I will be giving several copies as Christmas gifts.