Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants is a bestselling book written by author, ecologist, and Potawatomi professor Robin Wall Kimmerer. In her book, Kimmerer seamlessly weaves together scientific knowledge and traditional Indigenous teachings as she honourably introduces us to the exquisite beauty, intelligence, and countless gifts of the natural world.

The main purpose of Kimmerer’s book is to build bridges community-wide between Native and non-Native worldviews. She encourages readers to foster reciprocal relationships with the environment, understand the importance of maintaining good relations with the land, and view nature in a whole new way. Kimmerer speaks to readers’ hearts, minds, and spirit while providing an invaluable opportunity to learn traditional knowledge through story and scientifically sound facts.

Kimmerer begins the book by outlining the spiritual aspects of nature and how these elements play an important role in her own life as a Potawatomi woman. In each chapter, she reveals traditional teachings reflected in the plants and animals of the natural world. For example, she acknowledges the strength and resilience of the buffalo, the wisdom held in the lifespan of the oak tree, and the value of regeneration and rebirth in the cycle of the cicadas.

Throughout the book, she reminds readers that we need to respect, honor, and remember the gifts of the natural world, and how our actions might cause harm. She emphasizes that in order to restore balance, we need to learn how to give more than we take and how to conduct ourselves with responsibility and gratitude.

Kimmerer explores the grandeur of the seasons, our connection to ancestral lands, and the importance of acknowledging and honouring the Indigenous knowledge of previous generations. She also encourages us to think deeply and thoughtfully by offering personal insights, guiding readers to observe, learn and question their beliefs.

Kimmerer’s journey to restore balance demands respect and compassion for all life. This book offers valuable lessons in understanding and celebrating our shared intimacy and relationship with the natural world. Braiding Sweetgrass gives readers the opportunity to explore their place in the world and how to best honor it in every possible way. It is a powerful, meaningful and transformative book, with plenty of valuable lessons on how to care for Mother Earth.