This is one more great addition to Professor Tallamy's writings on nature. I'm about three quarters of the way through and finding it difficult to put down (even though I was reading two other good books at the moment this one arrived in the mail; it has forced me to put the others on hold until I can finish it!). I know I'm also going to be disappointed when I come to the end, sad that it's over. How many times have you heard that said about nature writing or books on natural history?

The two most obvious signs that you have a good book in your hands are that you have difficulty putting it down and you don't want it to end. Therefore, I suggest reading Tallamy's three books as one longer book, so you won't have to come to the end so quickly. They very much complement each other anyway, like a series, on the common subject of what we can & should do to improve our local natural environments: at home, school, church, workplace, etc.

Begin with "Bringing Nature Home," his first book about the importance of native plants in the landscape; followed by his best seller, "Nature's Best Hope," an expansion on the previous topic which includes his vision for a "home-grown national park" (you really MUST read this one; it didn't become a best seller for nothing!); and finish with this latest book regarding the many ecological and aesthetic benefits of oak trees in our landscapes.

Reading all three in succession would be very gratifying and enlightening. Tallamy is a great writer, easy to read, articulate, humorous, and very inspirational. He is also a master in his field, very knowledgeable about his subject matter and adept at sharing it with his readers in a way that makes them want to know more. That is what makes coming to the ends of his books so saddening. You are left craving more knowledge and more to read from this wonderful writer and educator. He's the kind of university instructor from whom I would have loved to take courses. For me, reading his books will have to suffice as the next best alternative.

I highly agree with the other 5 star reviewers on the details of this work that they have pointed out. Get it for an education on the benefits of planting oaks in your yard, for the many native creatures that depend on this species: the butterflies, moths, other insects, spiders, birds, squirrels, etc. But most of all, get this book so that you'll understand its importance to your own health and well-being. We should all be concerned with our environment. It's where we live, too. Tallamy demonstrates quite convincingly the importance of improving the places where we live for our own good, as well as for the good of the others we share it with!

Brand	N/A
Rating	4.8 (934 ratings)
Price	$15.79
Category	Agricultural Sciences

The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees