scijessreads

I went into this book thinking I would find out some new information about the history of Christmas trees. What I ended up coming out with was a deeper appreciation for how woven into the history of humans is the evergreen tree, in all its forms. The trees are symbols of culture and worship and tradition, as well as markers of human progress and expansion. They form the foundations for the rise and fall of civilizations, and their imagery has morphed over the centuries to fit current narrative. Trent Preszler’s work in this book is fascinating, both a history and a look at the intersection of man and nature, of the use (and mis/over-use) of resources without thinking about the cost.

Having grown up near mountains known for sky-high sequoia trees, this book felt like looking at my own relationship to evergreens and their silent watch over the passage of time. This is perfect reading for the winter season, when these important trees are a much more visible part of life and tradition.

I read this book as an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher (Algonquin). All opinions are my own. Book comes out 12/2/25!