The Alphabet of the Trees: A Guide to Nature Writing

by Christian McEwen (Editor), Mark Statman (Editor)

The Alphabet of the Trees is a superb collection of essays about teaching all aspects and forms of nature writing, including poems, field journals, fiction, and nonfiction. It is a practical handbook; an introduction to nature writing, nature poetry, and fieldwork; and a guide to some basic strategies for teachers at all levels. The distinguished contributors to this volume include nature writers, poets, fiction writers, and educators: Eleanor J. Bader, Barbara Bash, Joseph Bruchac, Jordan Clary, Jack Collom, Carolyn Duckworth, Margot Fortunato Galt, Barry Gilmore, Cynde Gregory, Penny Harter, Terry Hermsen, William J. Higginson, Susan Karwoska, Clare Walker Leslie, Christian McEwen, Suzanne Rogier Marshall, Holly Masturzo, Michael Morse, Mary Oliver, Carol F. Peck, Sarah Juniper Rabkin, Charles E. Roth, Matthew Sharpe, Gary Snyder, Kim Stafford, Sam Swope, John Tallmadge, Mary Edwards Wertsch, Janine Pommy Vega, and Ann Zwinger. Their essays present inspiring models from Tu Fu, Wallace Stevens, William Carlos Williams, Denise Levertov, Matsuo Basho, Muriel Rukeyser, Henry David Thoreau, Rainer Maria Rilke, Pablo Neruda, and many others. The Alphabet of the Trees also includes an extensive bibliography and resource section.

Genres: Writing, Nature, Nonfiction

336 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2000

Reviews

[Michael Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only read some of the chapters (mainly those related to poetry). This is targeted at educators but is useful for anyone interested in nature writing. There are some fun exercises that enjoyed trying on my own, and the writing samples (often from teens or younger) are incredible. Great book for nature fans interested in writing about their experiences.

[Daniel Riles · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Alphabet of the Trees is a nice collection of essays on nature writing. Some struck a chord in me more than others, but overall it was quite a good read. "With My Artist's Eye..." was one that stood out for me. In it Holly Masturzo describes using The Butterfly Alphabet to defamiliarize her students with the familiar. That alphabet has hung in my room since it was first published, and now it hangs in my children's room. I can't wait to share these ideas with my kids.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm finding the stuff on urban nature writing to be particularly compelling, given the population I work with. The ideas are practical and the text doesn't talk down to teachers. Already, I have one good idea for a poetry lesson and another for a vignette assignment.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful suggestions for teachers and children of all ages who want to explore nature through journaling.