When the Forest Breathes

“A masterclass on the inner workings of forests—a lush glimpse at the symphonic mutualisms and intergenerational cascades that sustain life at every scale. Simard, one of the boundary-pushing scientists of our time, is also a resplendent storyteller. Through her, new threads of connection between Indigenous knowledge and Western science are formed. The experiments and ideas in When the Forest Breathes are quietly revolutionary. This is science as an act of love for the world.”
—Zoë Schlanger, author of The Light Eaters

“This passionate study from ecologist Simard reveals how preserving forests’ natural cycles of death and renewal is key to their longevity . . . . Throughout, Simard artfully highlights the importance of honoring natural cycles by reflecting on her daughter’s coming-of-age and her mother’s reaching the end of her life. The result is a resonant and urgent call for change.”
—Publishers Weekly

“A captivating journey into the deep woods . . . . Simard clearly conveys the excitement of planning and carrying out her experiments, as well as the many obstacles to be conquered….Her gratitude toward and appreciation for [her] students . . . is touching, as they follow in her footsteps and come up with enticing new projects of their own . . . . Simard’s lyrical tributes to the creatures large and small that make up an ecological system, from fungi and moss to squirrels and bears to the largest and oldest of trees, add a dimension of heart . . . . A determinedly hopeful tribute to natural regeneration.”
—Kirkus

“In this fervent follow-up to Finding the Mother Tree, forest ecologist Simard delivers a potent mix of superb science writing, environmental advocacy, and a sense of spirituality inspired by her close connection to the natural world . . . . Throughout these pages, one mighty message reverberates: protect the trees and save the forests.”
—Booklist (starred review)