What do you think?
Rate this book
Back to Nature: How to Love Life – and Save It
'Rousing, polemical and heartfelt' - Gardens Illustrated
'An invitation to take action' - The Observer
One thing has become clear this year - we need nature more than ever. And it needs us too.
From our balconies and gardens to our woodlands, national parks and beyond, Back to Nature captures the essence of how we feel about the wildlife outside our windows. Through personal stories, conservation breakthroughs and scientific discoveries, it explores the wonder and the solace of nature, and the ways in which we can connect with it - and protect it.
'An invitation to take action' - The Observer
One thing has become clear this year - we need nature more than ever. And it needs us too.
From our balconies and gardens to our woodlands, national parks and beyond, Back to Nature captures the essence of how we feel about the wildlife outside our windows. Through personal stories, conservation breakthroughs and scientific discoveries, it explores the wonder and the solace of nature, and the ways in which we can connect with it - and protect it.
304 pages, Paperback
Published September 14, 2021
84 people are currently reading
1169 people want to read
About the author
Chris Packham
87 books120 followersChris Packham is a British naturalist and TV presenter and is well known for his many BBC television series since the days of The Really Wild Show through to Springwatch. He is an award winning photographer and writer, whose career has revolved around promoting public awareness of wildlife and conservation for more than 25 years. He continues to be a part of pioneering natural history television, such as Secrets of our Living Planet, Inside the Animal Mind and Operation Iceberg.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
January 31, 2021
This is a book written during the global pandemic and its one that celebrates the beauty of nature and the peace it can bring to one’s soul.
Nature is so important! But the problem is we are all so detached from it. We go to nature reserves without realising we are a fundamental part of nature. We live in cities and become so distanced from our own biological needs.
Nature deficit syndrome is real. It is so easy to become depressed and miserable when we are far away from greenery. Simply put, the modern world and her cities are not where we are supposed to be. I feel like modern human existence is synthetic and false. And here I’m speaking from personal experience, I moved to the city last year (after a lifetime of living in the country) and everything feels so wrong. It is not a place I want to be long term for my own wellbeing.
Back to Nature raises many important points about nature and how significant it is in our lives. It took a national lockdown here in the UK for people to realise what is on their doorstep and how it can bring happiness. And not enough people take it seriously enough or raise their voices for it. We live in a world that is in decline. Nature is receding as our continued growth expands into it decimating the population of wildlife and leaves the ecosystem in ruins. And something needs to change before there is nothing left.
We really do need nature and this book reinforces that fact beautifully.
___________________________________
You can connect with me on social media via My Linktree.
__________________________________
Nature is so important! But the problem is we are all so detached from it. We go to nature reserves without realising we are a fundamental part of nature. We live in cities and become so distanced from our own biological needs.
Nature deficit syndrome is real. It is so easy to become depressed and miserable when we are far away from greenery. Simply put, the modern world and her cities are not where we are supposed to be. I feel like modern human existence is synthetic and false. And here I’m speaking from personal experience, I moved to the city last year (after a lifetime of living in the country) and everything feels so wrong. It is not a place I want to be long term for my own wellbeing.
Back to Nature raises many important points about nature and how significant it is in our lives. It took a national lockdown here in the UK for people to realise what is on their doorstep and how it can bring happiness. And not enough people take it seriously enough or raise their voices for it. We live in a world that is in decline. Nature is receding as our continued growth expands into it decimating the population of wildlife and leaves the ecosystem in ruins. And something needs to change before there is nothing left.
We really do need nature and this book reinforces that fact beautifully.
___________________________________
You can connect with me on social media via My Linktree.
__________________________________
pass
October 14, 2021I'm not sure if it's me or the author, but this is one of those book's where I agree entirely with everything the author says but it's nevertheless pissing me off so much I need to stop reading before I cover my garden in concrete just for spite. It's the hectoring and-another-thing tone, I think: really grates on my nerves.
November 24, 2020
This is a book I’d recommend anyone with a drive to help wildlife and the environment as well as those who have no clue and should know about issues raised within the book. So many are blissfully unaware of what’s going on in our nature reserves, environment, farming practices and political failures to help environmental concerns, it’s books like these that are worth their weight in gold in educating the public and further casting out topics that rapidly need to be addressed and brought into discussion. I was amazed at how little I knew!
The book covers many points which need to be pushed out into the human consciousness, most of which are infuriating, can be uncomfortable to hear and would have you shouting out at the top of your lungs at the ludicrous, stupidity and outright unnecessary actions that are threatening our world. But we can do something about it!
The book is written in such a clever way, to educate you in matters, providing helpful hints into how you can help as well as positivities in examples of instigated change. It’s a call out of our human failures but also a welcoming into the arms of nature that we so need, not just for the help of our environment but for the help of our mental health and physical health’s too.
I loved the chapter on nature in helping mental health and how we are all intricately connected to nature and the grounding affect on us, which I certainly know through experience. Nature definitely is a healing balm.
The scientific nature of writing too is also brilliant, with inclusions from new and upcoming research, journals and comments from those in the field as well as some fantastic and very interesting science on animals and native species. Such as the science of butterfly wings, dragonfly vision, what really goes on underground with flirty earthworms and do birds dream, to name a few. There’s a lot to learn from this book, not only on current environmental issues but also in learning more about the world around you.
I’m a lover and ally of the environment and would love to do my bit and more for instigating change. As a scientist and nature lover, this book was definitely my bag but would be perfect for everyone and anyone to read. I’d recommend it to all!
This review was definitely longer than I intended but there was plenty to say!
In summary - Great book. Fantastically written. Important. Packed with great info and a must read in our plight to make a difference to our lovely planet earth. Even if reading this book is your first step. It’s a big one and an important one and I hope many take away a deeper love for nature after a reading this book!
The book covers many points which need to be pushed out into the human consciousness, most of which are infuriating, can be uncomfortable to hear and would have you shouting out at the top of your lungs at the ludicrous, stupidity and outright unnecessary actions that are threatening our world. But we can do something about it!
The book is written in such a clever way, to educate you in matters, providing helpful hints into how you can help as well as positivities in examples of instigated change. It’s a call out of our human failures but also a welcoming into the arms of nature that we so need, not just for the help of our environment but for the help of our mental health and physical health’s too.
I loved the chapter on nature in helping mental health and how we are all intricately connected to nature and the grounding affect on us, which I certainly know through experience. Nature definitely is a healing balm.
The scientific nature of writing too is also brilliant, with inclusions from new and upcoming research, journals and comments from those in the field as well as some fantastic and very interesting science on animals and native species. Such as the science of butterfly wings, dragonfly vision, what really goes on underground with flirty earthworms and do birds dream, to name a few. There’s a lot to learn from this book, not only on current environmental issues but also in learning more about the world around you.
I’m a lover and ally of the environment and would love to do my bit and more for instigating change. As a scientist and nature lover, this book was definitely my bag but would be perfect for everyone and anyone to read. I’d recommend it to all!
This review was definitely longer than I intended but there was plenty to say!
In summary - Great book. Fantastically written. Important. Packed with great info and a must read in our plight to make a difference to our lovely planet earth. Even if reading this book is your first step. It’s a big one and an important one and I hope many take away a deeper love for nature after a reading this book!
September 24, 2024
Having worked in animal welfare, I thought I was prepared for the hard-hitting truths in this book but Chris and Megan still managed to surprise and inspire me. This book is a powerful call to action, filled with personal stories, conservation breakthroughs, and fascinating scientific discoveries.
Chris’s passion for wildlife shines through every page. His heartfelt plea for us to reconnect with nature is both moving and motivating. As he says, "One thing has become clear this year - we need nature more than ever. And it needs us too". This sentiment resonates deeply, especially in today’s world.
Megan’s contributions are equally compelling. Her articles scattered throughout the book are packed with intriguing facts and insights. For instance, did you know that trees communicate with each other? Megan’s pieces add a rich layer of depth and knowledge, making the book not just informative but also a joy to read.
What I love most about this book is its balance of urgency and hope. It’s not afraid to challenge the status quo, yet it leaves you with a sense of determination to make a difference. As Gardens Illustrated aptly put it, "Rousing, polemical and heartfelt, Back to Nature is not afraid to challenge the status quo and it will fill you with a determination to take action".
Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or just starting to explore the wonders of nature, this book is a treasure trove of inspiration and knowledge. It’s a reminder that every small action counts and that together, we can make a significant impact.
Chris’s passion for wildlife shines through every page. His heartfelt plea for us to reconnect with nature is both moving and motivating. As he says, "One thing has become clear this year - we need nature more than ever. And it needs us too". This sentiment resonates deeply, especially in today’s world.
Megan’s contributions are equally compelling. Her articles scattered throughout the book are packed with intriguing facts and insights. For instance, did you know that trees communicate with each other? Megan’s pieces add a rich layer of depth and knowledge, making the book not just informative but also a joy to read.
What I love most about this book is its balance of urgency and hope. It’s not afraid to challenge the status quo, yet it leaves you with a sense of determination to make a difference. As Gardens Illustrated aptly put it, "Rousing, polemical and heartfelt, Back to Nature is not afraid to challenge the status quo and it will fill you with a determination to take action".
Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or just starting to explore the wonders of nature, this book is a treasure trove of inspiration and knowledge. It’s a reminder that every small action counts and that together, we can make a significant impact.
June 8, 2021
Id rather go out there and get me some environment and nature than read this book. It was bloody well boring. Was part of my book subscription and it just lulled in a lot of parts. Some of the fact sections were good and insightful but honestly if you want nature, just go outside. 2 stars as it was well writen and you could tell Chris and Megan know there stuff, just didn't do anything for me.
August 10, 2021
If you're new to 'discovering nature' thanks to lockdown, then this is the book for you - it will keep your enthusiasm going and give you ideas on how you can help.
For someone who's a bit more experienced, you might get eco-anxiety reading this!
For someone who's a bit more experienced, you might get eco-anxiety reading this!
December 28, 2023
Really interesting and insightful read. This book made me want to do even more than I already do to help wildlife! Highly recommend. :)
January 25, 2021
This is a tricky book to assess. It was clearly rushed out to seize a moment in 2020, although I mean by that the production values and especially the typos, far more than the content which you know will be competent.... and there is a place for such books. It didn't grab me in the way that Simon Barnes' brilliant Rewild Yourself or Nick Baker's also brilliant but grotesquely little known Rewild did... it is more in the business of telling you things which might make you love 'life' and why that's a good thing than those two stunning 'how' books. In some ways, but without pictures and happily no intrusive music (although music is mentioned) reading the books was rather like watching an episode of a BBC 'Watch programme.
Switching between the middle aged Chris and his twenty something stepdaughter's voices works nicely although I thought the way it was presented on the pages was a bit confusing and more unsatisfying. He does rush at breakneck speed through a wide variety of issues. It is a pity that those who demonise Packham won't read this, although seeing him making a case for increased eating of venison might make their heads explode... and whilst I was pleased to see him discussing land ownership issues, he's perfectly able to give credit to particular owners. He writes sadly too of the difficulty of avoiding palm oil... and about the complexities of managing grassy areas for maximum wildlife benefit.
Much of the 'isn't nature amazing?' element is given over to Megan, but her pieces still lead directly to conservation considerations. One of the glories of the book is implicit - the remarkable circumstance of their being in one another's lives and to such richness.
The book is a call to arms and references a whole variety of 'weapons', practical and political, we might and must take up in the cause of protecting nature.
Switching between the middle aged Chris and his twenty something stepdaughter's voices works nicely although I thought the way it was presented on the pages was a bit confusing and more unsatisfying. He does rush at breakneck speed through a wide variety of issues. It is a pity that those who demonise Packham won't read this, although seeing him making a case for increased eating of venison might make their heads explode... and whilst I was pleased to see him discussing land ownership issues, he's perfectly able to give credit to particular owners. He writes sadly too of the difficulty of avoiding palm oil... and about the complexities of managing grassy areas for maximum wildlife benefit.
Much of the 'isn't nature amazing?' element is given over to Megan, but her pieces still lead directly to conservation considerations. One of the glories of the book is implicit - the remarkable circumstance of their being in one another's lives and to such richness.
The book is a call to arms and references a whole variety of 'weapons', practical and political, we might and must take up in the cause of protecting nature.
August 21, 2024
A brilliant book filled with hope on what we can do to help nature, but also filled with up-to-date science and hard to read, but necessary facts about our world.
I bought this book as I wanted to do my bit in my little area of the world to help nature & this has been so helpful.
Reviews also published on:
Instagram || Threads || Coffee and Kindle Blog || The StoryGraph || Amazon
Happy to make friends on all socials
I bought this book as I wanted to do my bit in my little area of the world to help nature & this has been so helpful.
Reviews also published on:
Instagram || Threads || Coffee and Kindle Blog || The StoryGraph || Amazon
Happy to make friends on all socials
February 19, 2021
Just the kind of book I like - it was articulate, varied, interesting and took me on an emotional journey, too. It’s about connection and social justice and if you care about any strand of social justice you’ll make the connection between ‘it’ (your cause) and the topics covered in this book. So what ... there’s some typos/editing errors? To me that highlights the urgency and passion with which this message needed to get out into our homes, schools and libraries and is a reminder that books are written and produced by human beings not machines ... you can focus on that OR you can feel the passion, the anger, the love, the sheer unrelenting drive to change. I’m inspired.
November 27, 2021
A very interesting and informative book. The fragile state of our planet through observation and data is explored and the challenges for conservation in the UK.
The writing is motivating and inspirational about what we can do individually and collectively to help make a difference.
Chris and Megans different approach's balance each other out but what always comes across is the raw passion for nature they share. At times I found the sections bit jumpy but it did not detract too much from my enjoyment.
The writing is motivating and inspirational about what we can do individually and collectively to help make a difference.
Chris and Megans different approach's balance each other out but what always comes across is the raw passion for nature they share. At times I found the sections bit jumpy but it did not detract too much from my enjoyment.
January 30, 2021
Uplifting and depressing. So much more could be done to increase biodiversity; save many species from extinction; and save the earth and all of its inhabitants, but governments, big businesses and greedy fatcats make it so much harder and slower!
Well done to Chris and Megan for highlighting, not only the problems, but also the solutions - from small and manageable at home to large scale lobbying and demonstrations. With you in Wildlife Rebellion.
Well done to Chris and Megan for highlighting, not only the problems, but also the solutions - from small and manageable at home to large scale lobbying and demonstrations. With you in Wildlife Rebellion.
April 19, 2021
Brought this back in December and only just got round to reading it. Whilst incredibly interesting and factual it was, in places, a bit of a dire read. Perhaps it was the climatic topics covered, or the fact that many issues raised have been studied during my degree... I did enjoy the scattered case studies written by McCubbin throughout the book as it gave way for some interesting thoughts and relationships to be build with existing ecological knowledge.
Overall, I’d recommend this to someone with no ecological knowledge as this would be a good starting point. Or someone who is new to the climate crisis/ ecological injustices that occur throughout the British Isles.
Overall, I’d recommend this to someone with no ecological knowledge as this would be a good starting point. Or someone who is new to the climate crisis/ ecological injustices that occur throughout the British Isles.
May 11, 2021
I found this book incredibly enlightening. I feel even more firm in my convictions to do whatever I can to improve the biodiversity and wildlife in the UK. I feel inspired to preserve and encourage the reestablishment of a natural England that I realise now I have never experienced, and how essential it will be. I didn’t realise how quickly and to what extent our species have been in rapid decline. An essential book to get a clear view of our environmental position today.
January 27, 2021
A knowledgeable and thought provoking book on how you can do your bit to save the planet.
Read
February 9, 2021Absolutely marvellous. I needed this book to remind me why I'm studying what I am and why I fight for the environment. I really recommend everyone reads this to inspire you to make a change.
August 10, 2021
A very slow read as there is so much to take in but in the end, it asks the reader if you want to save nature then you have to act, and act now!
December 10, 2021
Nice book to dip in an out of. It gives me hope which is rare in a book that is largely about the climate crisis. Was really nice to read in the mornings.
March 13, 2022
This book isn't quite what I had expected it to be. In fact a good lot of it was much better, mainly because of the importance of the subject matter and our role in it. Lots of background information (some made my eyes gloss over) but also informative solutions and ideas of what needs changed and how we as individuals can do that, even on a small scale.
July 16, 2024
Well written and clearly Chris and Megan are incredibly knowledgeable. It is collection of pieces written during Lockdown. Some of it is great but it goes in a series of peaks and troughs. At times found it a bit of chore.
September 16, 2024
Clear, hard-hitting, entirely relevant. Pretty depressing.
February 1, 2021
Everyone needs to read this book, and I mean everyone! Absolutely FANTASTIC, insightful, educational, harrowing, uplifting and inspiring. It really is up to all of us to help save our planet, and as Chris and Megan write in this wonderful book, we CAN make a positive change if we all work together.
January 30, 2021
I am so angry and disgusted at the things I learned with this book. Ignorance really is a blessing.
I have learned so much with this book and although some of the things it taught me have given me hope, most of them took it away. I think the subtitle of this book is not what it's really about. It won't teach you to love life - you already do if you want to read it - and it will only inform you about some things you can do, some charities you can support and some people you should listen to if you want to help (mainly) the UK's biodiversity survive and prosper. It will plant a seed in you - one that will probably be nurtured by rage and indignation at the state of our country's wilderness - that will eventually grow into a tree of knowledge that will help you understand what you can and can't do if you want true change.
I think this is a book that should be read in schools in the UK. I think this is a book that should be remembered as a witnessing statement of the way we used to treat wildlife and biodiversity in the UK. And I hope it becomes just that one day, a book about everything we and our government were doing wrong and that one day we can feel nothing but relief that everything changed for the better.
I have learned so much with this book and although some of the things it taught me have given me hope, most of them took it away. I think the subtitle of this book is not what it's really about. It won't teach you to love life - you already do if you want to read it - and it will only inform you about some things you can do, some charities you can support and some people you should listen to if you want to help (mainly) the UK's biodiversity survive and prosper. It will plant a seed in you - one that will probably be nurtured by rage and indignation at the state of our country's wilderness - that will eventually grow into a tree of knowledge that will help you understand what you can and can't do if you want true change.
I think this is a book that should be read in schools in the UK. I think this is a book that should be remembered as a witnessing statement of the way we used to treat wildlife and biodiversity in the UK. And I hope it becomes just that one day, a book about everything we and our government were doing wrong and that one day we can feel nothing but relief that everything changed for the better.
July 20, 2021
Back to Nature was written during the Covid-19 pandemic, and it illustrates how much many people relied on the natural world at a time when we were confined to our own living spaces during the first lockdown in the UK. Those with gardens discovered a space filled with nature, and if they didn’t they avidly watched the Self-Isolating Bird Club on social media every morning to discover tips on how to invite nature into their lives. Those without gardens were able to find little pockets of nature on their daily walks.
This book talks about how we can preserve nature, and how important it is to do so. It talks about how it’s not just up to the individual to put a stop to Climate Change, but it’s also the responsibility of big business and governments globally. It shows the mistakes that have been made, and how local groups are trying to do their bit to save nature.
Chris’ sections look at the big picture, and Megans look at more detailed aspects of nature - which are linked to the wider considerations.
It’s a really interesting, well-written and accessible book.
This book talks about how we can preserve nature, and how important it is to do so. It talks about how it’s not just up to the individual to put a stop to Climate Change, but it’s also the responsibility of big business and governments globally. It shows the mistakes that have been made, and how local groups are trying to do their bit to save nature.
Chris’ sections look at the big picture, and Megans look at more detailed aspects of nature - which are linked to the wider considerations.
It’s a really interesting, well-written and accessible book.
August 11, 2021
Recently I've been dipping my toes in the waters of eco non fiction, and I wish I'd started with this book! Very accessible for the non expert and I loved how each chapter was interspersed with facts and there were clear voices between the two authors.
As easy as it is to get angry with humanity when reading books like this, the book doesn't dwell on the more upsetting parts, but just gives you the facts. Also lots of good suggestions and advice for positive change. Wish I had taken the opportunity during lockdown to be part of the self isolating bird club, but it's never to late to get back to nature!
As easy as it is to get angry with humanity when reading books like this, the book doesn't dwell on the more upsetting parts, but just gives you the facts. Also lots of good suggestions and advice for positive change. Wish I had taken the opportunity during lockdown to be part of the self isolating bird club, but it's never to late to get back to nature!
December 17, 2020
Great book, it really is going to help me transform my garden
December 31, 2021
Wonderful book. Love Chris and Megan. Thought provoking.
February 21, 2025
Megan McCubbin stepdau
2020
polls after lockd, cleaner air, wildlife, sense of community, not back to normal
How many ppl die in ant attacks ?? wot abt formalin, gma
adults too much control over ch keeping indoors, more wd b feral
declines outpace conservation
psych of ingrained mindsets, slow threats too remote
wildflower meadows,97% gone in lifetime, crop fields + agin pests
boring lawns, not even plantain, replace c wildflower patch
1993 WWF sued India for tiger prit areas, clearances ppl Assam
WWF crap, 12% world = nat parks. big conservation
bramble invasive but don't tidy it away
say no to t mow - by Plantlife. let lawn patch grow
Nat Parks crap, more for recreation than nature, land ownership
Wildlife Rebellion
or species' last chance to make that difference
annoying which instead of prepsn d2
Good challenging angles on nature's place all around us, the forces taking it away, and what life shifts can encourage it back. Good that it's not a scary long list of things to do, instead it's casually readable reflections on snapshots of nature in life and understandings of the life practicality challenges that get in way of doing an ideal lot of stuff in return. Much as, towards the ending, he would like to encourage as many readers as are willing, to become active daring green protesters.
Written after the impact of lockdown in 2020 on the public rediscovering nature. It records there was some public favour hope then that verges that had gone back to wild flowering would not have to become overmown by councils again, and after cleaner air and more community feel, not to go back to the old normal. Of course we have done. Speaks out against growth of a paranoidly controlling keeping indoors attitude to kids.
I particularly like his speak out against the respectable monotony of mown lawns, and not even letting them other plants like plantains and dandelions grow among them. That there is a campaign "say no to the mow". It's good to change some lawn to wild flower meadow, and to let some grass grow long helping other plant life among it, but akso keep some grass fairly short as that helps pollinators. The variety helps a mix of nature.
Despite his aspergers, like me, which is supposed to make us indeoendent of wanting to be cool, there is a strain running through it that he paints himself with punk fan cool, using bands and concert memories as metaphors. Has dogs called Sid and Nancy ! How does that work when you care against hurting animals, from the ladybirds you have observed as a kid, to a building site brutally going over a badger sett.
Speaks out on corrupted management + motives in the big wildlife charities + National Parks. They are not what we can complacently expect and need a second look about what they are doing before we give money or tourism. Reforesting, ssdumed to be good, is not much good if they keep harvesting the young trees for other products. These concerns against the public image of many environment-related things particularly important to share on. After the book, this was actually borne out further by his own break with the RSPCA over bad ethics.
He discusses the psychology of mindsets + threat responses. How they are are to things in the moment + not well developed to perceive or take seriously slow moving long term threats, like the climate crisis or disappearing nature. So a call to keep revisiting all our thoughts on it.
2020
polls after lockd, cleaner air, wildlife, sense of community, not back to normal
How many ppl die in ant attacks ?? wot abt formalin, gma
adults too much control over ch keeping indoors, more wd b feral
declines outpace conservation
psych of ingrained mindsets, slow threats too remote
wildflower meadows,97% gone in lifetime, crop fields + agin pests
boring lawns, not even plantain, replace c wildflower patch
1993 WWF sued India for tiger prit areas, clearances ppl Assam
WWF crap, 12% world = nat parks. big conservation
bramble invasive but don't tidy it away
say no to t mow - by Plantlife. let lawn patch grow
Nat Parks crap, more for recreation than nature, land ownership
Wildlife Rebellion
or species' last chance to make that difference
annoying which instead of prepsn d2
Good challenging angles on nature's place all around us, the forces taking it away, and what life shifts can encourage it back. Good that it's not a scary long list of things to do, instead it's casually readable reflections on snapshots of nature in life and understandings of the life practicality challenges that get in way of doing an ideal lot of stuff in return. Much as, towards the ending, he would like to encourage as many readers as are willing, to become active daring green protesters.
Written after the impact of lockdown in 2020 on the public rediscovering nature. It records there was some public favour hope then that verges that had gone back to wild flowering would not have to become overmown by councils again, and after cleaner air and more community feel, not to go back to the old normal. Of course we have done. Speaks out against growth of a paranoidly controlling keeping indoors attitude to kids.
I particularly like his speak out against the respectable monotony of mown lawns, and not even letting them other plants like plantains and dandelions grow among them. That there is a campaign "say no to the mow". It's good to change some lawn to wild flower meadow, and to let some grass grow long helping other plant life among it, but akso keep some grass fairly short as that helps pollinators. The variety helps a mix of nature.
Despite his aspergers, like me, which is supposed to make us indeoendent of wanting to be cool, there is a strain running through it that he paints himself with punk fan cool, using bands and concert memories as metaphors. Has dogs called Sid and Nancy ! How does that work when you care against hurting animals, from the ladybirds you have observed as a kid, to a building site brutally going over a badger sett.
Speaks out on corrupted management + motives in the big wildlife charities + National Parks. They are not what we can complacently expect and need a second look about what they are doing before we give money or tourism. Reforesting, ssdumed to be good, is not much good if they keep harvesting the young trees for other products. These concerns against the public image of many environment-related things particularly important to share on. After the book, this was actually borne out further by his own break with the RSPCA over bad ethics.
He discusses the psychology of mindsets + threat responses. How they are are to things in the moment + not well developed to perceive or take seriously slow moving long term threats, like the climate crisis or disappearing nature. So a call to keep revisiting all our thoughts on it.
July 5, 2023
Title: An Inspiring Guide to Embracing Life and Preserving Our Planet
Review:
"Back to Nature: How to Love Life - and Save It" is a breathtakingly beautiful book that manages to capture the essence of what it means to truly live in harmony with our planet. From cover to cover, author Chris Parkham takes us on an immersive journey that is both enlightening and heartwarming.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its ability to instil a deep sense of appreciation for the natural world. With vivid descriptions and captivating anecdotes, the author paints a picture of the wonders that surround us, urging us to reconnect with nature and recognize its immense value. Through every page, I found myself rediscovering the magic of a simple walk in the woods or the awe-inspiring beauty of a starry night.
What sets "Back to Nature" apart from other books on environmentalism is its positive and empowering approach. Rather than overwhelming readers with despair, it focuses on practical steps we can take to make a difference. The book is filled with actionable tips, from incorporating eco-friendly habits into our daily lives to supporting local communities and advocating for sustainable practices. It shows that each one of us has the power to contribute to the preservation of our planet, igniting a sense of hope and empowerment.
Moreover, the author's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex environmental concepts easy to understand for readers of all backgrounds. The book is filled with captivating stories, personal experiences, and thought-provoking insights that keep you hooked from beginning to end. It strikes the perfect balance between being informative and inspiring, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and the impact they have on the world around them.
"Back to Nature" is not just a book; it is a call to action. It serves as a wake-up call, reminding us of our interconnectedness with the Earth and urging us to protect and preserve it for future generations. Whether you are an avid environmentalist or someone looking to make a positive change in your life, this book is a must-read. It will rekindle your love for nature, deepen your understanding of environmental issues, and empower you to take meaningful action.
In a world often filled with despair and uncertainty, "Back to Nature" provides a much-needed ray of hope. It reminds us that by embracing the beauty of the natural world and actively working towards its conservation, we can create a future that is not only sustainable but also filled with joy, wonder, and a deep appreciation for the incredible planet we call home.
I wholeheartedly recommend "Back to Nature: How to Love Life - and Save It" to anyone seeking inspiration, guidance, and a renewed sense of purpose. Let this book be your compass on the path toward a more harmonious and sustainable future.
Review:
"Back to Nature: How to Love Life - and Save It" is a breathtakingly beautiful book that manages to capture the essence of what it means to truly live in harmony with our planet. From cover to cover, author Chris Parkham takes us on an immersive journey that is both enlightening and heartwarming.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its ability to instil a deep sense of appreciation for the natural world. With vivid descriptions and captivating anecdotes, the author paints a picture of the wonders that surround us, urging us to reconnect with nature and recognize its immense value. Through every page, I found myself rediscovering the magic of a simple walk in the woods or the awe-inspiring beauty of a starry night.
What sets "Back to Nature" apart from other books on environmentalism is its positive and empowering approach. Rather than overwhelming readers with despair, it focuses on practical steps we can take to make a difference. The book is filled with actionable tips, from incorporating eco-friendly habits into our daily lives to supporting local communities and advocating for sustainable practices. It shows that each one of us has the power to contribute to the preservation of our planet, igniting a sense of hope and empowerment.
Moreover, the author's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex environmental concepts easy to understand for readers of all backgrounds. The book is filled with captivating stories, personal experiences, and thought-provoking insights that keep you hooked from beginning to end. It strikes the perfect balance between being informative and inspiring, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and the impact they have on the world around them.
"Back to Nature" is not just a book; it is a call to action. It serves as a wake-up call, reminding us of our interconnectedness with the Earth and urging us to protect and preserve it for future generations. Whether you are an avid environmentalist or someone looking to make a positive change in your life, this book is a must-read. It will rekindle your love for nature, deepen your understanding of environmental issues, and empower you to take meaningful action.
In a world often filled with despair and uncertainty, "Back to Nature" provides a much-needed ray of hope. It reminds us that by embracing the beauty of the natural world and actively working towards its conservation, we can create a future that is not only sustainable but also filled with joy, wonder, and a deep appreciation for the incredible planet we call home.
I wholeheartedly recommend "Back to Nature: How to Love Life - and Save It" to anyone seeking inspiration, guidance, and a renewed sense of purpose. Let this book be your compass on the path toward a more harmonious and sustainable future.
January 31, 2021
My boyfriend bought me this at Christmas, as he knows that I love nature. Chris Packham, along with his step-daughter, Megan McCubbin, has written a very timely book. Last year, towards the end of March, we entered our first lockdown. Nearly 11 months later, we find ourselves still in lockdown, as the nation tries to overcome the pandemic. I have to say that, personally, I have felt very lucky in some ways during these times, as I live in a place where countryside, and forest, is right on my doorstep. Nature has always provided me with solace, delight and has reenergised me when I need it most. To me it is second nature (pardon the pun), to spend time outdoors admiring and appreciating everything that nature has to offer. But, I am aware that not everyone is in the same situation. I think, during our times in lockdown, people who perhaps took the great outdoors for granted began to look at it in a different way. But, I also recognise that people are, or have been, deeply disenfranchised from nature for a long time.
Back to Nature is a way to try and show people how we should look after the nature that we have within this country, but also it attempts to give you ideas of how you may be able to make some changes, even small ones, to encourage nature where you are. Early in the book, Packham explains to us the concept of 'biophilia' - the idea from a German psychoanalyst, Erich Fromm, suggesting that "humans harbour an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life" (p.16). However, at the same time, we have come to recognise that Nature Deficit Disorder, whilst not a medically recognised mental health condition, is perhaps what is behind increasing numbers of children and adults being disconnected from nature (p.20). So, where does this leave us?
Reading this as a nature lover, I did hope that this book would contain more aimed at those who do not share my love quite do deeply. Please don't get me wrong, this is a great book, but the reason that I have awarded 3 stars is that I think there could have been more about the true splendour of nature. The sections where they describe certain aspects of nature, such as the fact that butterflies have almost a heart beating in each of their wings, were lovely to read and to discover. I would have liked more of these. Perhaps it is because, as a lover of nature, they are kind of preaching to the converted to me, but even so, I have come away from this book learning new things and also finding myself thinking more deeply about some of the points that they have put across.
Back to Nature is a way to try and show people how we should look after the nature that we have within this country, but also it attempts to give you ideas of how you may be able to make some changes, even small ones, to encourage nature where you are. Early in the book, Packham explains to us the concept of 'biophilia' - the idea from a German psychoanalyst, Erich Fromm, suggesting that "humans harbour an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life" (p.16). However, at the same time, we have come to recognise that Nature Deficit Disorder, whilst not a medically recognised mental health condition, is perhaps what is behind increasing numbers of children and adults being disconnected from nature (p.20). So, where does this leave us?
Reading this as a nature lover, I did hope that this book would contain more aimed at those who do not share my love quite do deeply. Please don't get me wrong, this is a great book, but the reason that I have awarded 3 stars is that I think there could have been more about the true splendour of nature. The sections where they describe certain aspects of nature, such as the fact that butterflies have almost a heart beating in each of their wings, were lovely to read and to discover. I would have liked more of these. Perhaps it is because, as a lover of nature, they are kind of preaching to the converted to me, but even so, I have come away from this book learning new things and also finding myself thinking more deeply about some of the points that they have put across.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews