In Braiding Sweetgrass, Robin Wall Kimmerer draws on her life as a scientist and a member of the Potawatomi Nation to explore the connections between traditional indigenous teachings and modern scientific knowledge. She demonstrates that both systems are based on observation, rationality, and respect for the land-and that by integrating these two ways of knowing we can create a more sustainable future. Through stories about her own experiences in nature, anecdotes from Native American cultures, and observations from current research in ecology, Kimmerer provides an eloquent argument for honoring our spiritual relationship with the natural world. She shows how Indigenous science offers surprising insights into phenomena like climate change , invasive species , and extinctions . And she reveals how learning to pay attention to plant wisdom can help us restore balance not only within ourselves but also within our communities and our planet as a whole.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for anyone who wants to learn about Indigenous Wisdom and Scientific Knowledge.
Pros :
- This books offers a unique perspective on the relationship between indigenous teachings and scientific knowledge.
- It is eloquent and well-written, making it an enjoyable read.
- The author’s personal anecdotes provide valuable insights into the topic at hand.
Cons :
- It can be dense at times
- It may require a lot of effort to connect the ancient stories with modern scientific knowledge
- The writing style is lyrical and descriptive, which some readers might enjoy but others may find difficult to follow
Learn more about the author
Robin Wall Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, and member of the Potawatomi Nation. She is Professor of Environmental Biology at SUNY College in Oneonta, New York.
Reader Reviews
“This book is a must read for anyone who wants to learn about the scientific and Indigenous ways of knowing, and how they can be integrated for the sake of our ecological future. Kimmerer’s writing is lyrical and poetic, but she doesn’t shy away from presenting complex scientific concepts in an accessible way. This important work offers hope for restoring balance not only within ourselves, but also between humans and nature.”
“Braiding Sweetgrass should be read by everyone who wants to learn more about the Native cultures of North America, ecology, and our deep spiritual connection with nature. It is a wonderful book that may well change your life.”
“This book is a must read for anyone who wants to better understand the intricate, spiritual relationship indigenous people have with nature. Kimmerer’s gift as an author is her ability to eloquently bridge scientific principles with traditional Native American teachings, offering readers a unique perspective on the world around us.”
“In this slim, but powerful book that blends memoir with science and natural history, Kimmerer expands upon the environmental philosophy she first aired in her Guggenheim acceptance speech. She convincingly argues for the preservation of indigenous ways of knowing and interacting with nature as a corrective to humanity’s current destructive relationship with ecosystems…Kimmeer is an engaging writer whose prose sparkles whether she’s discussing traditional ecological knowledge or personal memories.”