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Naming Nature: A Cabinet of Natural Curiosities for Word Lovers

by T. A. Barron

The natural world, seen through its names

Regular price $20.80 USD
Regular price $34.67 USD Sale price $20.80 USD
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AlbakiReads Editorial

The natural world, seen through its names

In Naming Nature, words become a way to trace how people across cultures and centuries have understood the living world. T. A. Barron draws on etymology, folklore, mythology, and cultural tradition to explore the names given to animals and plants, ranging from elephants to narwhals. The book connects linguistic choices with the landscapes and relationships they reflect, bringing together language, nature, and human history. Archival artwork from Oxford’s Bodleian Library accompanies the exploration, adding a visual dimension to its account of how the natural world has been described.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Readers interested in etymology, folklore, and the cultural history of words
  • Nature enthusiasts curious about the names of plants and animals
  • Readers drawn to illustrated explorations of language across cultures and centuries

Themes

Language and natureEtymology and folkloreCultural traditionsHuman relationships with the natural world

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

A lyrical journey through the world's languages from bestselling author T.A. Barron, revealing how we've named--and been shaped by--the natural world, with exquisite archival art from Oxford's Bodleian Library.

"A GLORIOUS BOOK" --Dr. Jane Goodall

From New York Times bestselling author T.A. Barron comes this captivating exploration of how human cultures across time and geography have described the living world around them. From the poetic to the practical, the reverent to the resourceful, every language holds unique insights into how we relate to nature.

Drawing on etymology, folklore, and linguistic nuance, this richly illustrated volume uncovers the meanings behind the names we give to animals and plants, revealing the deep interconnection between language and landscape.
  • Lush, full-color archival artwork from Oxford's Bodleian Library
  • Spans continents and centuries, from elephants to narwhals
  • Rooted in etymology, mythology, and cultural tradition
  • An elegant gift for nature lovers and word enthusiasts

Add this gorgeous celebration of the natural world to your shelf and discover the wild stories hidden inside the words we use every day.
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