A Perpetual Journal Practice: Building a Connection with Nature through Art

by Lara Call Gastinger

Accept this invitation to connect with nature and yourself and create a perpetual art journal layered with observations of nature through the inevitable passage of time.

Botanical artist Lara Call Gastinger has made it her mission to teach artists and nature lovers worldwide how to keep a nature-focused perpetual art journal, holding sold out workshops and classes in person, as well as going live on Instagram every Monday morning to inspire and guide the efforts of her devoted followers and practicing artists of all skill levels. Now through this gorgeous, encouraging book, with a thoughtful foreword by trusted and beloved author and ecologist Doug Tallamy, Lara guides readers, nature lovers, and artists through this rich and mindful practice, further illuminated by a breathtaking, up-close-and-personal look into 52 of her own full-page journal spreads, lovingly built over many years.

From how to number each page spread in a fresh, blank journal, to tips on bringing those blank pages to life, to soothing the concerns of those who are unsure they can connect in such a way with their natural environments or their own power of expression, A Perpetual Journal Practice is a powerful book for naturalists seeking a deepened and more personal understanding of nature, artists seeking to improve their skills, and those seeking to heal and grow in all the green spaces.

Genres: Art, Nature, Crafts, Nonfiction

204 pages, Paperback

Published June 23, 2026

Reviews

[A Dreaming Bibliophile]

Thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press for providing me with an eARC.

This was a fun book to read. I've been wanting to try art journaling for a while now and this really gives me the push I need to start. I was expecting this to be more of a detailed guide on how to make some botanical illustrations and also tips on preparing your spread/composition but it was just the latter. This book doesn't teach you how to draw but teaches you how to see, absorb and express the things around you, especially plants in this case. I really like the concept of one spread per week. It really takes the pressure off having to do things in one go, and can be applied to other artistic endeavours as well. I liked the inclusion of all the pages of the author's journal from last year. It really shows how a journal evolves over a year and is great for inspiration. The end also includes examples of perpetual journals from other creators which gives more insight into other art styles. I would definitely recommend this to anyone trying to get into botanical journaling.

[Mary M]

This book was extremely informative. I love to bullet journal and do paper crafts but I have never heard of a Perpetual Journal. It see a like a wonderful hobby to get in to. I like how author doesn't push reader to but lots of supplies but suggests just starting with a notebook that has space for 52 weeks. The author spends time explaining how she became interested in journaling which was a nice touch. Growing up near the Blue Ridge Mountains and Chesapeake Bay sounds idyllic!

The Author makes it seem like it would be easy to create your own journal. Suggesting giving only 10 minutes per week to drawing if that's the only time you have. She even says it's ok to fill with the written word which I love!

I love the idea of having 52 spreads and going back to the same week every year until journal is full. It's a lovely way to reminisce about time that has passed. The authors first journal took 16 years to fill!! She does say the average journal takes 5-10 years to fill.
The book includes the authors own journal pages. I really enjoyed looking at these. It got me really excited to start my own journal. I liked how even the authors style of drawing changed over time. It includes lots of different media types for inspiration. I like how she included pictures of how the journal pages develop from one or two drawings to being completely filled.

This was my favourite qute from book:

In a world where the future is unknown, I am reminded that spring will come again.

I think I will include this on the title page of my own journal.

The writing style is informative but easy to understand. It's written in a supportive way and has really gotten me excited to start my own journal. The author stresses that there is no need for perfection which encourages the reader to be brave and make the journal they want for themselves. I am definitely going to do. Living in Ireland we are lucky to have a huge variety of Flora throughout the year.

I like the Idea of having the journal act as a record of how climate change is affecting our natural world.

The tips section at back of book was helpful.

I think this book would be a lovely Christmas or new year gift. Starting a perpetual journal on January 1st would be a wonderful way to start the new year. The author does say it can be started on any week of the year so it would also be a great birthday gift. I love the idea of starting it on my birthday and having a record of my year.

I will probably buy a physical copy of this book and would love if an accompanying journal was available

[Liz]

Interesting book about the practice of journaling, as it applies to art. First, I am not an artist. In fact, I'm terrible at drawing. I do want to learn some of the basics though, and while I'll never be a master at it, I have learned a few things in my journey, and this book has been helpful in that.

When you think of a journal, you might think of something like a diary, something that contains words, thoughts, emotions, or even just a recounting of that days events. This is similar to that, only in a more artistic format. The book starts with a brief introduction of the author, what a perpetual journal is, why you might want to start one, and then how to actually start one. From there it goes into a visual copy of the authors own journal for the year, and then wraps up with some of the supplies you may need, how to go about your own spreads, tips, suggestions, etc.

This one went through a journal of the natural world over the course of the year, and that's a great idea. If you already know how to do these sorts of things. I've adapted mine, using a lot of the same advice from this book, and am basically chronicling my way through what I'm learning at any given time. For example, color wheels. I created my own copy of a color wheel, made notes about how they work, the different terms so I'd remember, then I made my own little mini wheels to experiment with color. While this book suggests a two page spread for each week, I'm just working as I go. The color information I got has taken up about three two page spreads, and I date them, then mark the start of my next week/lesson. So I am using the advice to work weekly, but I'm leaving open how many pages to use since some weeks are full of things I want to get down, and others might only need that one or two pages.

Having this has been helpful though, sometimes I get stuck on what to put in there, but even though the authors topic is different from my own, it does help to see the variations and phases she is going through, to help get ideas for what I can do with mine. Super helpful, probably more so if you know what you're doing, but for those of us wanting to give it a decent shot to learn something new, you'll also appreciate this one.

I received an advanced reader copy of this title from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[The Sassy Bookworm]

Book Review: A Perpetual Journal Practice by Lara Call Gastinger

Rating: 4 Stars

If you’re looking for a gentle yet inspiring invitation to deepen your connection with nature through art, A Perpetual Journal Practice by Lara Call Gastinger is an absolute treasure. This book beautifully bridges creativity, mindfulness, and the natural world, offering a unique approach to journaling that unfolds over time.

One of the most captivating ideas here is the concept of a 52-week perpetual art journal—essentially revisiting the same week each year to capture the subtle changes in your natural surroundings. It’s a thoughtful way to reflect on the passage of time and cultivate a lasting relationship with the environment around you. The author’s own journals, which span over a decade, provide stunning real-life examples that are as encouraging as they are visually breathtaking.

Lara’s writing style is warm and accessible, striking a perfect balance between informative guidance and gentle encouragement. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just beginning to explore nature journaling, her tips and insights make the process feel both manageable and deeply rewarding. The helpful section at the back of the book serves as a great resource for practical advice and inspiration.

Visually, this book is a feast for the eyes. The artwork radiates charm and invites you to pick up your own pen or paintbrush. The cover alone is enough to spark joy, hinting at the beauty and creativity contained within.

Overall, A Perpetual Journal Practice is a wonderful companion for anyone eager to grow their artistic skills, nurture their connection with nature, or simply find a peaceful way to reflect and express themselves.

If you’re ready to slow down, look closer, and create something truly personal over time, this book is a heartfelt guide well worth your bookshelf.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[Chantal Agapiti]

While I was reading the first pages of this book, it felt like home as I could relate to the author’s thoughts in full.
I’m a nonfiction writer and I often refer to the concept of staying curious and take notice of the world that surrounds you.
I’m a forever learner, and I’m grateful that I never lost my childlike ability to still be amazed by the little things:
little flowers growing through the grass, a bird’s nest in one of our trees, a bee working in the garden, etc.
And I love to capture those moments with my camera, because I can’t sketch.

My father was the artist, he could draw and paint, but I just haven’t that ability as I do with words and a camera.
Being a strong observer makes the world seem brighter, witnesses nature and its magnificent colors and textures
can make a smile appear even in the darkest moments. But most of all it gives me hope.

Watching nature reminds me of how magical life in itself is and can be. One of my favorite quotes is
“Life finds a way” and it has proven to be true so many times through my life.

Thank you to the author for sharing her talent and thoughts with us, and reaching out to help others explore the world.
To make us view our surroundings through her eyes and understand how much nature matters to us.
We can only hope it will lead to more attention and care.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for granting me this opportunity.

[Christina Vourcos]

Recommended for nature journaling!

Lara provides useful tips that you can revise and make your own through this journal practice. It’s really about focusing a bit more on nature no matter what your artistic practice is. It’s good for those getting started with art journals and those who have experience.

This book can be a good resource to remind yourself about how you can connect to nature and take a bit of time away from technology or concerns. This journal practice allows you to collect moments throughout the year and years to come. It doesn’t have to be only details. It can be other things that inspire you, like writing down poetry alongside the natural art.

I also love that this book also reminds us that this practice can lead to active participation to protecting our natural world around us. We need to use journaling to help us connect to nature and help protect our environment more than ever before. Through journaling we notice a lot more of the changes that we are making.

As an artist who has a sketchbook practice already, this book is a reminder for me to keep my artistic practice, but also remind myself to always find little moments throughout the year to keep track of nature around me. I’m thankful that Samantha Dion Baker recommended Lara Call Gastinger’s book.

[Alicia Bayer]

This is an absolutely beautiful book. The author not only teaches you how to set up a perpetual nature journal (a 52 week art journal that you draw and record observations in again and again over a period of years for each weekly span), but also includes one of her own perpetual nature journals that she completed over ten years. The art is really gorgeous and inspiring. At the end, there are examples of beautiful pages by other artists too.

The only reason this is a 4 star book and not a 5 star for me is that the pages are all so phenomenal and professional looking that I did not feel capable of doing this sort of thing myself. She says not to worry if you don’t consider yourself a good artist, but I still felt that all of this is just so far outside of my scope. I really wish she had included a bunch of examples of normal folks doing spreads and producing fun and satisfying results, and even children’s examples. As it was, I came away feeling like this would be a wonderful project for really talented artists, which I know was not the goal. Still highly recommended.

I read a temporary online copy of this book for review.

[Jenny P]

I'd probably give this a very solid 4.5 if it were possible, but I rounded up since the book deserves more than just 4 stars.
This is an excellent resource for those who enjoy nature journaling! It has exquisite illustrations of flora and fauna throughout its pages. I found myself going back through it over and over, gaining more inspiration for my own drawings. A lot of art books seem to give the same information, but I found that while this did give necessary information for newbies it wasn't done in a way that made me want to skim through it. I'm not sure how to express that those parts didn't feel excessively redundant to me, but I like that a lot. This is certainly something I will be picking up a physical copy of and placing it next to my copies of John Muir Laws' and Claudia Nice's books.

*This is an art book you need to read, so if you're looking for step by step instructions, this probably isn't the best choice. I tend to learn towards the latter for my learning style, but I still really enjoyed this book.

[Anna]

I've long enjoyed learning about artists capturing nature in their various media. Lara Call Gastinger's book, A Perpetual Journal Practice is a visually beautiful read and approach to nature illustration in the form of a perpetual journal. She shares one of her perpetual journals capturing her work over a 10 year span where she documents her observations by week. In this manner, you can see the seasons change, the minute details that captured her attention and the ways you can capture a moment in time. She provides her own tips, advice and encouragement from use of different supplies to techniques that are approachable for even beginners. While I don't have a regular art practice, I do enjoy seeing the work of others even though it can also be intimidating. The idea of a perpetual journal is new for me and one that intrigues me - I do have plenty of notebooks where I could give this a try!

Many thanks to Timber Press and NetGalley for the e-arc.

[Bee Presley]

A Perpetual Journal Practice by Lara Call Gastinger ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I didn't fully understand the concept of a "perpetual" journal until I started flipping through this book, and now I'm completely obsessed with the idea. 🌿Here's how it works: you dedicate one page spread to each week of the year. When the year is up, you don't start a new journal — you go back to the beginning and layer your new observations right on top of the previous year's. Year after year, the same pages grow richer, deeper, and more complex. Your journal essentially becomes a living, breathing document of time passing in the natural world around you.

This book is packed with intricate botanicals and insect illustrations. It encourages you to pick up a pencil instead of your phone and pay close attention to the repeating rhythms of the seasons. The idea is to carve out a quiet, intentional creative practice. 🐝✏️

I received an advanced reader's copy from Timber Press in exchange for my honest review.

[Kelley]

I have followed the author Lara Gastinger for years on Instagram and so I was thrilled to receive this digital ARC from TimberPress.

Lara has a very encouraging voice as to why everyone should be keeping a perpetual nature journal. She gives numerous examples of things that you could include in your journal, how to actually number the pages, what tools to have on hand, and, also, gently nudges you to just start. That always seems to be the hardest part.

The best part is the weekly photos from one of her personal perpetual journals. These weren't included to make you compare your abilities to hers and put you in freeze mode, but they were used to show you what a wonderful journal you will have if you just start. Start today, start where you're in your art journey, and just DO.

I will be sure to purchase this on its release day to have in my studio.

Thank you again to TimberPress and NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[June]

Whether you’re looking to practice your drawing, get out in nature more or just slow down in life this is the book for you! This is an all encompassing book about nature journaling. The author takes you through what is needed (surprise it’s not the skill of drawing) and helps you get started.
I truly enjoyed this book, the author’s perspective on nature journaling really inspired me to try this out. I love how she really focuses on the fact that you don’t have to be an artist. This is your own personal journal and you WILL get better if you continue your practice. However, she does show us her journal and the drawing are absolutely inspiring. They make me want to slow down, really focus and enjoy the little things. The end of the book was actually bumped it up to 5 stars. There are so many excuses not to try something or continue it, but she gives you the anti-excuse to anything that might stop you. Don’t we all need that sometimes?

Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC of this book

[Cindy]

This inspirational book is a how-to manual for starting a perpetual nature journal. The author is famous on Instagram and other social media platforms for sharing her perpetual journal practice. In this volume, she shares her suggestions and ideas for getting started, including materials needed. Then we see completed pages from one of her perpetual journals covering a 5-year span. More advice follows, plus spreads from other practitioners. It's a feast for the eyes, yet not overly intimidating. It encouraged me to start my own perpetual journal, now in my second week. I highly recommend this for anyone interested in art, nature, the changing seasons, or just trying to be more observant.
My thanks to the author, @TimberPress, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook for review purposes. Publication date is 23 June 2026. Order now for your summer vacations!

[Charissa Wilkinson]

I received this book courtesy of NetGalley for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Overview: Are you looking for a different way to meditate? Mrs. Gastinger has an idea about that. She has a particular type of journal that might encourage you to slow down and observe the world. This perpetual journal is an art journal that works over several years in one book. How does it work? Let's find out.

Likes: We get several pages of Mrs. Gastinger's own perpetual journal. This shows how she grew as an artist over the years. It also shows quite a bit of encouragement for those who are just getting started.

We gete a good way to set up the journals.

Conclusion: This was a fascinating book. If you are an artist, then this book is a for you. Enjoy the read.

[Blu (blus.bookish.blues)]

🍂 I received an advanced readers copy via NetGalley; this is my honest review. 🍂

I love when we get to see how science and art can intersect, and this book is a perfect instance of that. I hadn't heard of a perpetual journal before, but I did used to be really into bullet journaling, so I was intrigued to learn more. I was deeply inspired by Gastinger's writings and getting to see one of her perpetual journals in its entirety. I honestly want to start two journals: one to observe nature and one to observe other things I encounter in my day to day. My biggest take away was the emphasis on mindfulness. It can be easy to forget to be present in the hustle and bustle of the modern day.

Okay, off to start my journals now!

[Tina]

There is so much to learn and observe in nature. The book is filled with many beautiful drawings over the course of a year. I particularly liked the butterflies and mushrooms. I appreciated who she walks you through how to select and observe a plant for your journal and to start with focusing on a small section of whatever you are trying to render. I also really liked the options described in “other approaches” for different journaling styles like color studies and dissections. The book concludes with examples from other artists who I’ve now started following. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Tammy]

Absolutely gorgeous art! Great directions for starting your own perpetual journal. I love scrapbooking and junk journaling. This book has opened my eyes to adding some of my own art to my pages or to create my own Journal. I always carry a travel journal with me but have never taken the time to sketch! I love nature and botanical drawings! The author is very knowledgeable and her artwork is gorgeous! If you ever want to start your own perpetual journal this is the book to read! The author encourages you to go out and start with clear directions on how to create your own journal . Whether you choose 52 weeks or 10 years to complete . I hope to attempt to make my own botanical journal soon!

[Cora]

I love the the concept of A Perpetual Journal Practice. The book is approachable and accessible, full of helpful information and encouragement. I've been wanting to start a nature journal, but wasn't sure where to start or what I wanted it to look like. This book has helped me solve that and finally get started.
I also love the versatility of this practice, though the book is specific to nature journaling, the concept could apply to anything.
Overall, all great book and one I can see myself referring back to time and time again.

Thank you to Timber Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Lili Hill]

I recognize I want to connect myself better to the world around me. This journaling practice is a satisfying way to accomplish that. Lara Call Gastinger introduces the idea in a safe, gentle way so you don't feel overwhelmed or intimidated. She walks you through the process, materials, and ways to add to your perpetual journal over years of time. Just start, and watch your observations grow while you gain the connection to your world around you. Thank-you, Timber Press, for this complimentary copy. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Ishieta Chopra]

I cannot draw, but i am in awe of artists who can not only draw, but observe the changing & moving aspects of nature and capture that - the talent, the eye for details, and the patience - to observe, and to not only observe but compare year - on -year, and then capture that on paper --- WOW! It is so very very awe-inspiring and fascinating. This book does all of these, and make them feel accessible. I love the way she gives ideas to add this into your journal practice.
Enjoyable & a treat for the eyes!

[Lea]

A Perpetual Journal Practice by Lara Call Gastinger is a vivid and descriptive book for starting a nature inspired perpetual journal with a task to observe for every week for the next years.

Reading it is very motivating to go outside and experience nature every week and to use the idea for building good habits and getting closer to nature again. I can really recommend this book for inspiration.

Thank you to NetGally for the ARC!

[Vjohnston]

Excellent - though I could not find a sketchbook that matched her specifications and had to create my own. That was a rabbit hole and now I am signed up for a book restoration workshop for May of 2027. So. . . reader beware - may involve risk of multiple rabbit holes to fall into, and not just creating a botanical perpetual journal - which is wonderful in and of itself.

While it is marked read, I'm constantly referring back to it as I work through my own perpetual journal.

[Helen]

What a beautiful book. I didn’t know what a perpetual journal was but I love the idea of it. I am definitely going to try it. It fits very well with the nature watercolours course I just took. There is less information and more of the authors pictures but if you use it for inspiration I think that’s ok. Thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press for the ARC.

[Anne]

The start of this book is full of very useful information, advice and inspirational.
The rest is full of really good inspiration with tips and ideas noted throughout.
Worth the read as you never know what you might learn or get inspired from, with in it.
I really enjoyed this book and have found it quite informative.

[Debbie]

A fantastic book, I had never heard of a perpetual journal before this and it was very intriguing. Well. Written great advice and lots of illustrations. I now have a perpetual journal before- inspiring. Thank you to the author. Thank you to #netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small]

Review to follow

[Danielle Mccoy]

I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.

Heavy on words but with a few years of inspiration in pictures. I was impressed by the idea.

[Prerana Shah]

Absolutely loved going through this book. It captures the idea of using nature to get inspiration to journal and do art. I love both things a lot and can’t wait to paint more

[Sarah]

A beautiful and encouraging book on starting your own perpetual nature journal. A big section of the book is Lara’s own entire journal. Stunning!

[Cynthia M]

A good introduction to nature journalism. 2/3rds of the book are replicas of drawings in her own journal. It’s not heavy with text but a gentle introduction to the practice.