Rhody Reads: Six Books That Take You Outside

Hugh Minor selects picks by local authors that bring the nature to you

Posted Tuesday, October 1, 2024 9:00 am

By Hugh Minor

October is the best time to experience the natural surroundings of New England. It’s neither cooler, nor warmer: it’s all that. Whether you’re reading in the yard, on the beach, or from the comfort of your living room couch, these six books by local authors will inspire your wanderings out into the fresh, crisp air that arrives every fall.

Hit the road with the windows down and the music blasting with East Coasting by Providence-based author Christine Chitnis as your guide. Beautifully illustrated by Monica Dorazewski, the book highlights destinations both familiar and off the beaten path, from Connecticut to Canada and everywhere in between. Spoiler alert: Rhode Island lighthouses are gorgeously illuminated.

Massachusetts native Ben Shattuck’s observations on nature and life are engaging and inspiring. Six Walks: In the Footsteps of Henry David Thoreau expounds upon the travels he takes throughout New England to clear his mind. In the process, he discovers his true self, meets wife-to-be Jenny Slate, and learns more about the people and the land around him, including a bit of history from Rhode Island, both recent and long past.

In his second novel, Ordinary Bear, Rhody-transplant C.B. Bernard delves deep into what’s at the heart of grief and healing. Set on the other side of the content in Alaska and Portland, Oregon, places he called home for years, the book addresses one of the most basic human needs: hope. Written with tones of mystery and dark humor, Bernard leaves the reader reflecting on ways they’ve overcome loss and what they’ve done to recover from tragedy.

The bicycle has continued to evolve as an accessible way to explore the outdoors since it was first invented in the early 1800s. In Mile Markers, our former editor, writer, and filmmaker Robert Isenberg of Cranston presents a celebration of this traditional means of recreation with his own unique perspective. From working as a bike messenger to teaching his own son to ride, Isenberg mixes joy with humor while expounding on this vehicle’s important legacy.

Instilling in young people an interest in outdoor adventures is critical in these times when they spend countless hours scrolling and staring at screens. With Adventures at Bramble Woods, 13-year-old author Nicholas Bramble of Warwick introduces us to Mr. Nick and his close-knit group of friends who come together to restore a rustic resort. Can they make Bramble Woods thrive again like it did in its heyday? Put on your work gloves, then pick up a copy to find out.

The story of David Attenborough’s mission to save our planet is presented for younger audiences in Wild Places by Haley Rocco and her husband, Caldecott Honoree John Rocco. With his lush illustrations and her gentle storytelling, children will not only learn about the diversity of the planet but also understand the importance of preserving and protecting every single species.

Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases