The Hidden Life of Trees

[Sarah]

Please comment

[Helen]

I'm not going to read this one, having only just being able to read again after a year off, I know I won't be able to get through this, sorry!

[Shirley]

No problem, I’m reading it on and off as it’s fairly technical and I’m definitely no botanist!
We have started The Miniaturist too as an inbetweenie, shall I just send my copy to you when I’ve finished?

[Sarah]

Hi Helen/Shirley, still waiting for my copy to arrive, I will be attempting (????) it, when it arrives x

[Shirley]

I've just finished The Hidden Life of Trees. Have to admit I've been reading in fits and starts, but that was fine for nonfiction. Some chapters I found a little bit heavy going, as I really only have a laymen's knowledge of forestry and trees, but what kept me reading was the many little enlightening snippets of information. Also the explanation of the WoodWideWeb wasn't too technical and left me with a stronger sense of appreciation and respect for trees and fungi. Wohlleben's overriding message about conserving forests was interesting too; claiming and demonstrating that even professionals in conservation have been getting it wrong for so long and that human meddling of any kind damages our forests.
In general the understanding that a tree is not a single object will stay with me, that all trees have an integral role in their surroundings, 'feeding' it and us during its slow life.
I have always loved the trees in my garden, but now I love them a little bit more.

[Sue]

Very impressed you managed to finish Hidden lives of trees Shirley. I do find it really interesting and keep relaying bits to the family at teatime, like the screaming spruce that learn to conserve water, but I find myself drifting off after a few pages and have to reread big chunks. I will preserve!

[Shirley]

Yes I was the same Sue, a lot that I read more than once, but I was reading other things at the same time because it was just too technical for me to get a good flow going.