The Eight Master Lessons of Nature

What Nature Teaches Us About Living Well in the World

By: Gary Ferguson

Narrated by: Gary Ferguson

A riveting manifesto for the millions of people who long to forge a more vital, meaningful connection to the natural world to live a better, more fulfilling life

Looking around at the world today—a world of skyscrapers, super highways, melting ice caps, and rampant deforestation—it is easy to feel that humanity has actively severed its ties with nature. It’s no wonder that we are starving to rediscover a connection with the natural world.

With new insights into the inner workings of nature's wonders, Gary Ferguson presents a fascinating exploration into how many of the most remarkable aspects of nature are hardwired into our very DNA. What emerges is a dazzling web of connections that holds powerful clues about how to better navigate our daily lives.

Through cutting-edge data and research, drawing on science, psychology, history, and philosophy, The Eight Master Lessons of Nature will leave readers with a feeling of hope, excitement, and joy. It is a dazzling statement about the powers of physical, mental, and spiritual wellness that come from reclaiming our relationship with Mother Nature. Lessons about mystery, loss, the fine art of rising again, how animals make us smarter, and how the planet’s elders make us better at life are unforgettable and transformative.

Critic reviews

Praise for The Eight Master Lessons of Nature
“It's hard to put down the phone and pay attention to the larger world--but as this insightful book makes clear, that kind of attention to the natural world can help set us on better paths for our lives, our societies, and our futures.”—Bill McKibben, author of Deep Economy and Eaarth

“This beautiful book will make your genes ache with homesickness for the mystery we sprang from. Luckily, it’s waiting right outside. Let Gary Ferguson take you there. You'll remember, and you'll thank him.”—Alan Weisman, author of The World Without Us and Countdown

“I saw truth. I saw beauty, I saw a better future in these pages.”—John Lewis-Stempel, author of the bestselling Meadowland, The Running Hare, The Wood and Still Water

“In this expansive survey, nature writer Ferguson (Walking Down the Wild) argues that nature’s ‘harmony, balance, and rhythm’ can teach humans how to live peaceful, vital lives. Ferguson’s eight assertions each speak to the powerful connections he sees between the natural and human worlds, each beginning with his lushly delivered observations of nature.”—Publishers Weekly

“A mellow, meditative book for nature lovers and those who want to reconnect with the world around them.”—Kirkus

"Ferguson relates in details the wondrous intricacies found in nature and emphasizes the necessity of healing the planet, not just for the sake of the plants and other animals, but humanity as well. This inspirational work will spur readers to start noticing the world around them."—Library Journal

The poetic language used for scientific ideas

Beautifully written reminder of the importance of our connection with nature! This book is vital to our healing

Stupendous book!

Easily one of the best books I have ever read.
I am 74 and I've read a lot of books. 🙂

Thank you Mr. Ferguson.

A good listen.

It was a good perspective shift. I was able to reframe thoughts as I listened.

Lessons

Beautifully written and read. Lessons we need to review over and over. I would definitely recommend it.

Came recommended but not for me

Has some nice anecdotes but it’s all very circumstantial. Would liked it to have more ‘meat’. Narrator has some kind of lisp which disturbed me.
Wasn’t able to return it so stuck with it 😓