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42 pages 1 hour read

Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Suzanne Simard

Finding the Mother Tree

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

British Columbia • 1990s

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Finding the Mother Tree, Suzanne Simard details her life’s work as a forest scientist, exploring interconnected mycorrhizal networks among tree species and their cooperative behaviors, all while navigating challenges such as gender bias in forestry and a battle with cancer. Simard delves into themes of generosity, feminism in science, and the deep connection between forests and human society. Sensitive topics include an aggressive form of breast cancer and experiences of gender and cultural bias.

Informative

Inspirational

Contemplative

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.4

18,160 ratings

84%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Suzanne Simard's Finding the Mother Tree captivates with its blend of memoir and scientific exploration, revealing the complex communication networks of trees. While praised for its passionate advocacy and engaging narrative, some critics find it occasionally repetitive and dense with scientific detail. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read for nature enthusiasts and science lovers alike.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Finding the Mother Tree?

Readers who relish Finding the Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard are nature enthusiasts, ecology students, and fans of Peter Wohlleben’s The Hidden Life of Trees. They appreciate narratives blending scientific discovery with personal memoir. Ideal for those intrigued by forest ecosystems, interspecies communication, and environmental stewardship.

4.4

18,160 ratings

84%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Suzanne Simard

A scientist and professor in forest conservation sciences at the University of British Columbia, known for her research on mycorrhizal networks and the concept of Mother Trees. Her memoir intertwines her professional journey with personal experiences such as motherhood and overcoming challenges within a male-dominated field.

Suzanne's brother, who influenced her understanding of the forest despite their unresolved disagreements about gender roles before his untimely death. His passing deepened Suzanne's connection to nature and contributed to her research focus.

An elementary school teacher who provided invaluable support and guidance to Suzanne, encouraging her to pursue a career outside the logging industry and to become a professor. Her relationship with Suzanne echoes the nurturing role of Mother Trees described in Suzanne's research.

A government policymaker associated with Canada’s Forest Services, representing the opposition Suzanne faced from those favoring conventional, profit-driven forestry practices. His interaction with Suzanne highlights the gender dynamics and skepticism she faced in her field.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

British Columbia • 1990s

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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