Natural History Books

Written By Emma Herz

*Disclaimer : All opinions of this experience are my own and not representative of the U.S. Government or The Fulbright Program.

Cover Image: Biodiversity Heritage Library

As I was considering applying for my Fulbright, I had some small notions regarding the purpose of my project, but nothing fully fleshed out at the beginning. I wanted to provide a reading list below of the publications that inspired my grant project in the first place. Some of the books listed are very nuanced, but others are amazingly written and fascinating reads. I hope some of you will try out one of these titles. It’s nice to be able to share them with you all!

  • Gods, Wasps, and Stranglers by Mike Shanahan

  • The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson

  • Lab Girl by Hope Jahren

  • The River of Doubt by Candice Millard

  • The Royal Art of Poison by Eleanor Herman

  • The Plant Messiah by Carlos Magdalena

  • The Invention of Nature by Andrea Wulf

  • The Dragon Behind the Glass by Emily Voight

  • The Sound of the Sea by Cynthia Barnett

  • River of the Gods by Candice Millard

  • The Wise Hours by Miriam Darlington

  • The Orchid Thief by Susan Orlean

  • In the Museum of Man by Alice L. Conklin

  • Zarafa by Michael Allin

All of these publications have unique stories about powerful historical figures, prominent scientists, or contemporaries all deeply connected to niche topics within Natural History. Each author listed covered their subject matter with wonderful objectivity and unique breadth, telling stories most audiences have not heard before. From imperialist abuses, ancient traditions, and renewed interest in conservation, to riveting crimes…one of these books has something for everyone. Happy reading!

Emma Herz
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