Oak – The Frame of Civilization - Softcover

Logan, William Bryant

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0393327787 ISBN 13: 9780393327786

Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company, 2006

Synopsis

Professional arborist and award-winning nature writer William Bryant Logan deftly relates the delightful history of the reciprocal relationship between humans and oak trees since time immemorial-a profound link that has almost been forgotten. From the ink of Bach's cantatas, to the first boat to reach the New World, to the wagon, the barrel, and the sword, oak trees have been a constant presence throughout our history. In fact, civilization prospered where oaks grew, and for centuries these supremely adaptable, generous trees have supported humankind in nearly every facet of life. "With an unabashed enthusiasm for his subject" (Carol Haggas, Booklist) Logan combines science, philosophy, spirituality, and history with a contagious curiosity about why the natural world works the way it does. At once humorous and reverent, "this splendid acknowledgment of a natural marvel" (Publishing News) reintroduces the oak tree so that we might see its vibrant presence throughout our history and our modern world.

About this title

Review:

Passion is never boring...[Logan's] affection and admiration for the oak tree are so persuasive that the next time you see one you might be inspired to kneel before it in recognition of its sprawling contributions to mankind.

Any student of history or lover of the woods will enjoy discovering the many contributions that this tree has made. Readers will have plenty to think about next time they pass under a canopy of these amazing trees.

Certified arborist and nature writer William Bryant Logan has brought a literary voice to the story of the mighty oak. This wonderful history is written in a storyteller's voice.--Debra Prinzing

Oak has plenty to teach us...In his own way, Logan is restoring knowledge that disappeared, and in the end it is his passion for the trees themselves that makes this book remarkable.--Anthony Doerr

Logan is a gentle ecologist, and paints an enthralling picture of the cooperative business going on underground.--Richard Mabey

Synopsis:

Professional arborist and award-winning nature writer, William Bryant Logan deftly relates the delightful history of the reciprocal relationship between humans and oak trees since time immemorial. From the ink of Bach's cantatas, to the wagon, the barrel and the sword, oak trees have been a constant presence throughout history. In fact, civilisation prospered where oaks grew and for centuries these supremely adaptable, generous trees have supported humans in nearly every facet of life. In his "quirky eulogy to Quercus" ("The Guardian") Logan combines science, philosophy, spirituality and history with a contagious curiosity about why the natural world works the way it does.

About this edition

• Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 0393327787
• ISBN 13: 9780393327786
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 336