From the Publisher
"My late friend and colleague, Professor Akira Miyawaki, wanted nothing more than to repair the forests of the world. He wanted trees in the ground, as do I. This book would make him happy."—Diana Beresford-Kroeger, author of To Speak for the Trees
"We cannot solve problems by succumbing to fear and anger, and yet so much of the climate conversation is powered by the fearful narrative of a dying planet. In Mini-Forest Revolution, Hannah Lewis offers a different story—one that is authentic, honest, and powered by love. Her writing provides the inspiration, motivation, and recipe for working with nature rather than against it; for gathering our courage and creating the world we imagine."—Shubhendu Sharma, founder and director of Afforestt
"Imagine a world where every modest scrap of worn-out dirt or asphalt—think tennis-court-size—can become a cooling, moisture-circulating, air-cleansing, wildlife-nurturing forest within a few years. Mini-Forest Revolution shows how ordinary citizens can embrace this trowel-ready solution, and are doing so even under the harshest, sun-bleached conditions."—Judith D. Schwartz, author of The Reindeer Chronicles
Library Journal
05/01/2022
Inspired by Japanese botanist and forest ecologist Akira Miyawaki, Lewis (editor of Compendium of Scientific and Practical Findings Supporting Eco-Restoration to Address Global Warming) has penned a paean to the Miyawaki Method: the people-powered reforestation tactic of turning any small lot or backyard into a tiny grove of native climax forest plants (originally a response to Japan's rapid post-WWII development). These mini-forests store water, are carbon sinks, and provide shade, green spaces for people, and habitats for animals. Lewis explains how a Miyawaki mini-forest functions and how to plant one (with a list of resources at the book's end). She also introduces practitioners of the Miyawaki Method and the mini-forests they've planted in schoolyards, lots, and corporate campuses around the world (Japan, Lebanon, India, Cameroon, Iran, Washington State), including the project she spearheaded at home in Roscoff, France. VERDICT An important and fascinating look at how small forests of native plants create corridors of habitat and provide ecosystem services. It will be relished by environmentalists, gardeners, and fans of Doug Tallamy's Nature's Best Hope.—Sue O'Brien
