balberry 's review for:

Is A River Alive? by Robert Macfarlane

5.0

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

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This is nonfiction at its most poetic. It’s storytelling with reverence for the natural world, told through the powerful lens of rivers. It is as much about human connection and humility as it is about environmental wonder. Each chapter introduces us to people whose lives are shaped by rivers, and through Robert’s eyes, I fell in love with them, their stories, and the waters they fight for. I didn’t expect to be as moved as I was, crying through the Acknowledgements and Aftermath. This is the kind of book that shifts how you see the world. It weaves in Indigenous perspectives, environmental science, and philosophical inquiries about life itself, especially in his exploration of the Rights of Nature, a concept made so clear and urgent. He makes a compelling case that rivers are not just vital to life, but are life, challenging the narrow boundaries we place around what is considered alive. The book is beautifully sourced, complete with a glossary, index, and comprehensive references that had me checking out new books to read and organizations to explore. I am particularly reflective on the impact of hydroelectricity, including Hydro Quebec’s role here, and the costs to river ecosystems we so easily overlook from the city. This is essential reading for anyone open to having their perspective on the natural world expanded. I’m inspired, heartbroken, and motivated to do more. It’s a gorgeous, transformative book I can’t recommend highly enough. 

Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Canada for access to this book.