11/13/2023. Great River Greening had the honor of sponsoring the 2023 season of Minnesota Public Radio’s “Talking Volumes” with Kerri Miller. As part of that sponsorship, Great River Greening staff and Conservation Circle donors had the pleasure of attending the season finale featuring New York Times columnist and nature writer Margaret Renkl. All enjoyed a thoughtful conversation on the intersection of grief and anxiety over our changing climate and joy over the absolute wonders we see outside everyday—even in our own backyards. Staff gave away hand-harvested milkweed seeds to guests who were excited to sow them in their own yards and grow some joy.

Following the “Talking Volumes” finale, Great River Greening staff members couldn’t help but discuss what we’re currently reading, our favorites, or even what’s in our “To Be Read” pile.

Here are ten can’t-miss books for you to check out:

Here at Great River Greening, we’re transforming hope into action for Minnesota’s climate future. You can make an impact and take action in whatever way works for you:

• Pick any (or all) of these books to read and enact what you learn.

• Plant native plants at home.

• Partner with us.

• Support this work.

• Volunteer with Great River Greening.

You can find these books at an independent bookstore near you. Click for a list or map of independent booksellers in Minnesota.

Quotes were edited slightly for length and clarity.

Photo Credits:

• Author Margaret Renkl and MPR’s Kerri Miller on stage at the season finale of “Talking Volumes” (Kateri Routh)

• Hand holding up “The Comfort of Crows” and “The Climate Action Handbook” (Julie Baumeister)

• Remaining images courtesy of the webpages individually linked throughout this blog post, but modified in Canva to fit in the square layout.