LOST SOMETHING?

No. reviewers 95K+
Rating 4.0 - 4.6
85%+ rated 4 or 5 stars

In The Hidden Life of Trees, German forester Peter Wohlleben explores the surprising complexity of trees and the ecosystems they sustain. Drawing on years of experience in the forest, Wohlleben presents trees as social beings capable of communication, memory, and mutual care.

The book delves into the way trees interact with one another, share resources, and even help their offspring. Wohlleben shares captivating stories about trees that defy conventional understanding, revealing how their lives are far more intricate and interconnected than previously thought. Through the book, readers are invited to see the forest not just as a collection of individual organisms, but as a community with its own network and complex relationships.

What reviewers loved

Fascinating and Eye-Opening Information: Many readers were captivated by the new perspective the book offers on trees. Wohlleben's insights into how trees communicate and care for one another were described as eye-opening and mind-expanding.

Engaging Writing Style: Reviewers appreciated Wohlleben's ability to convey complex scientific concepts in a clear and engaging manner. His conversational tone made the material accessible to a wide audience, even those without a background in science or ecology.

Passionate and Personal Voice: The book’s personal touch, with Wohlleben’s anecdotes from his own experience as a forester, resonated with many readers. His genuine love and respect for nature shines through, making the book not only informative but also heartfelt.

Empathy for Nature: The Hidden Life of Trees sparked a deeper empathy in many readers for trees and forests. The book encouraged people to view trees as more than just passive organisms, but as active, interconnected beings worthy of respect and protection.

Inspiration for Forest Stewardship: Many reviewers expressed how the book inspired them to think more about the environment and the importance of preserving forests. Wohlleben’s advocacy for sustainable forestry practices was especially appreciated by those concerned about climate change and deforestation.

Rich Detail and Storytelling: The detailed descriptions of various tree species, their behaviours, and the life within a forest were widely praised. Readers enjoyed how the book was full of stories that brought the world of trees to life, making it both educational and entertaining.

Connection to Nature: The book gave readers a deeper connection to nature, helping them appreciate trees and forests in a new light. Many felt more attuned to the natural world after reading Wohlleben’s observations and insights.
 
Anthropomorphising Trees: Some readers took issue with the book’s tendency to anthropomorphise trees, attributing human-like emotions and social structures to them. These readers felt that this approach might not align with a more scientific or strictly objective view of nature, and some found it overly sentimental.

Repetitive Information: Some readers felt that the book’s themes became repetitive, especially in the second half. The emphasis on how trees communicate and share resources, while fascinating, was seen by a few as over-emphasised.

Simplistic for Experienced Readers: A few reviewers, especially those with prior knowledge of environmental science or forestry, found the content somewhat simplistic. While the book provides an excellent introduction to the subject, they felt it lacked depth in certain areas.