What’s On Our Bookshelf: Summer Reading Recommendations
Happy Summer! ☀️
If you’re looking to expand your knowledge of environmental science this summer, or just want a new book to read, check out our Summer Reading Recommendations! LA Compost staff have compiled their favorite books about plants, composting, and our deep-rooted connection to the earth.
Read on to see their recommendations and quotes from the LA Compost team!
“The Story of More by Hope Jahren is a favorite of mine. A scientific look at sustainability, how we got where we are and what we can actually do about it.”
- Nate Fernald, Programs Assistant
Summary from Goodreads:
From the bestselling author of Lab Girl comes a slim, urgent missive on the defining issue of our time: here is Hope Jahren on climate change, our timeless pursuit of more, and how the same human ambition that got us here can also be our salvation.
“Really inspiring + thought provoking book that blends indigenous ecological knowledge and storytelling.”
- Josh Petteruti, Programs Assistant
“Robin Wall Kimmerer's books beautifully highlight the breadth and depth of indigenous ecological knowledge in a world where we have platformed modern science/academia to a point that is almost detrimental.”
- Michelle Cutler, Northeast LA Regional Coordinator
Summary from Goodreads:
As a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Robin Wall Kimmerer embraces the notion that plants and animals are our oldest teachers. In Braiding Sweetgrass, Kimmerer brings these lenses of knowledge together to show that the awakening of a wider ecological consciousness requires the acknowledgment and celebration of our reciprocal relationship with the rest of the living world.
“I recommend The Light Eaters for anyone curious about interconnectedness in the natural world. It explores complexity in plant and soil communities, and is a reminder of just how much is happening beneath our feet.”
- Ryan Jackson, Executive Director
Summary from Goodreads:
Award-winning environment and science reporter Zoë Schlanger delivers a groundbreaking work of popular science that probes the hidden world of the plant kingdom and reveals the astonishing capabilities of the green life all around us. An eye-opening and informative look at the ecosystem we live in, this book challenges us to rethink the role of plants—and our own place—in the natural world.
"Easy reading with historical information about how organics recycling has traditionally included our own poop aka the highly coveted "night soil" as it was referred to in China! If we can get a handle on recycling our stinky food scraps, why stop there?”
- Michelle Cutler, Northeast LA Regional Coordinator
Summary from Goodreads:
There are almost seven billion defecating people on planet Earth, but few who have any clue about how to constructively handle the burgeoning mountain of human crap. The Humanure Handbook, third edition, will amuse you, educate you, and possibly offend you, but it will certainly pertain to you--unless, of course, your bowels never move.
⚠️ While we are interested in the history of composting human waste and hope you are too, LA Compost will not accept human waste drop offs.
“Octavia Butler’s visionary storytelling feels more urgent than ever. Set in LA in 2024-2025, the book eerily mirrors our current environmental and social crises. As a super fan of Octavia Butler, I’m continually moved by her powerful reminders that relationships and collective care are our greatest tools for survival and transformation.”
- Breanna Hawkins, Board Member
Summary from Goodreads:
In 2024, with the world descending into madness and anarchy, one woman begins a fateful journey toward a better future. When fire destroys their compound, Lauren’s family is killed and she is forced out into a world that is fraught with danger. With a handful of other refugees, Lauren must make her way north to safety, along the way conceiving a revolutionary idea that may mean salvation for all mankind.
“I read this during the pandemic at a book club and it inspired hope and energy during that challenging time. Would be a great read at any point in time for inspiration from amazing female leaders working on climate change.”
- Elena Lopez, Senior Outreach and Communications Manager
Summary from Goodreads:
All We Can Save illuminates the expertise and insights of dozens of diverse women leading on climate in the United States--scientists, journalists, farmers, lawyers, teachers, activists, innovators, wonks, and designers, across generations, geographies, and race--and aims to advance a more representative, nuanced, and solution-oriented public conversation on the climate crisis. These women offer a spectrum of ideas and insights for how we can rapidly, radically reshape society.
Thanks for checking out our list!
Remember to visit local libraries and secondhand bookstores to minimize consumption. To see more book recommendations, check out the resources page on our website.
Happy Summer Reading! 📖 😎