Gardens, poetry and kinship await you this spring
As a self-defined plant nerd, I read and write about plants whenever I can. I’m embarking (see what I did there?) on a new plant book project and recently picked up three books for “research.” Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Moss by Robin Wall Kimmerer, an Indigenous woman, writer, scientist and naturalist, wowed me with her book Braiding Sweetgrass, so I dove into her previous works, including this one. As luck would have it, it’s also on sale: down to $12 from the usual $19 retail price.
I’m also sinking my teeth into Jared Farmer’s Elderflora: A Modern History of Ancient Trees, which spans everything from contained horticultural traditions to the wild. The paperback version is $15, saving you $7.
And finally, I scooped up My Favorite Flowers: Writers and Gardeners on the Plants They Love, edited and introduced by Jamaica Kincaid. I’m a huge fan of Kincaid’s writing, so finding a book she compiled that involved gardening was a thrill for me. Essays include Kincaid, Michael Pollan, Maxine Kumin and more. Grab your own copy for $13, which is $7 off.
I was chatting about books with my colleague, Stephanie Barnes, and asked her what she’d recommend for you, dear readers, to take advantage of during the Big Spring Sale. Here’s what she said:
Mary Oliver’s Devotions has been a part of my daily devotion for many years. Oliver’s words keep me grounded and remind me of the miraculous ways of nature. It’s currently just $12, which is 40% off its regular price. I recommend this book for anyone who wants to step into reading more poetry.
Another one I recommend is Kin from Tayari Jones. This is a 2026 release, and it’s already 30% off, bringing the price down to $22. You absolutely can’t go wrong with Jones’ storytelling.