As you know – or if you’re a new visitor here, perhaps you don’t – I never leave my home without a book ready-to-hand; sometimes in a packet and others actually in-hand. Not unexpectedly, such EDR (every day read) books need to be small (see the aforesaid pocket reference) and relatively short to be toted about as such. Fortunately, many publishers have, and others continue to, make such pocket-sized books available. Most recently, I discovered two from Chronicle Books that are particularly well suited to the purpose: The Pocket Nature Series.
Thus far composed of two inaugural volumes, the Pocket Nature Series combines interesting and useful information about the natural world with a underlying theme of observing nature for the purpose of obtaining an improved mental state (and who among us couldn’t use that these tempestuous days?).
Erin Riley’s Leaf Peeping provides readers with a veritable pile of pertinent facts about the leaves, as well as recommendations for ways and locations to enjoy their annual autumn color changes. Not a field guide proper but rather a gentle introduction to the subject that is very well suited for newcomers to nature observation, Leaf Peeping trades detail for encouragement with its simple illustrations of types of trees and their respective leaves, making it a particularly well-suited book to give as a gift to that friend who seems to be a bit more stressed than is healthy these days and who might benefit form a little time spent simply sitting quietly looking at a gently orange-and-red hued tree.
Cloud Spotting by Casey Schreiner takes a similar approach to Leaf Peeping in its presentation of the ubiquitous formations of atmospheric moisture that are free for the enjoyment of all for the simple fee of looking skyward. Also in the vein of Leaf Peeping, Cloud Spotting includes selections from poems, interesting “did you know,” tidbits, and other quick-to-read features. However in Cloud Spotting, Mr. Schreiner is more bold in his encouragement of using the observation of natural phenomena to bring about moments of mental clarity.
Whether for carrying about for moments of edification, enjoyment, or relaxation, the new Pocket Nature Series volumes from Chronicle are well-timed books indeed to offer us all reminder that the beauty of nature can readily be found all around us for free – all we need to do is open our eyes and allow ourselves to see it.
