“He who plants a tree loves others beside himself.”
Here’s an interesting fact for you: Did you know that rainforests cover only 7% of the Earth’s surface, yet they contain 50% of its wildlife? It’s amazing to think that these tropical ecosystems are the oldest on the planet and some have a history that dates back over 70 million years.
Rainforests are incredibly important to the sustainability of our planet because they provide us with so many things we need like air, water, medicine, food, and shelter. They are also a natural protector against climate change by absorbing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Learn more about the magic of these ecosystems and the challenges they face, with What We Reading‘s list of six classic non-fiction books about rainforests.
The Rainforest Book – Charlotte Milner
Let’s start our list with Charlotte Milner’s The Rainforest Book, a wonderful introduction to the wonders of the rainforest for young readers. With its stunning illustrations and informative descriptions, this book highlights the vital importance of nature and conservation.
It takes you on a colourful journey through the vast array of flora and fauna in the rainforest, showcasing the incredible diversity of animal species that call it home. Reading The Rainforest Book is not only a fun experience, but it also inspires an interest in protecting the “lungs of the world.”
The Lost City Of the Monkey God – Douglas Preston
One of the Best Nonfiction nominees in the 2017 Goodreads Choice Awards, Douglas Preston’s The Lost City Of The Monkey God tells the true story of an incredible journey into the world’s densest jungle. The book traces the history of the fabled Lost City Of the Monkey God, which has captured explorers‘ imaginations for five centuries.
In 1940, Theodore Morde returned from a journey into the Honduran interior with lavish artefacts that he claimed came from this city, but he tragically committed suicide, taking the city’s location to his grave. Follow Douglas Preston as he navigates treacherous and breathtakingly beautiful wilderness to uncover the secrets of The Lost City of the Monkey God and the ancient civilizations that inhabited it.
Lost In The Jungle – Yossi Ghinsberg
Yossi Ghinsberg’s Lost in the Jungle is a gripping account of a true story about four backpackers who meet in Bolivia and embark on what was meant to be the adventure of a lifetime. Their plan was to explore the rainforest and uncover lost villages and ancient civilizations.
However, they soon realise that they are lost in the vast jungle and must fight to survive. This enthralling and harrowing tale of survival is told by the author who lived and breathed every moment of it. The group’s incredible efforts to stay alive in one of the most treacherous places on Earth are almost unbelievable. Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the rainforest with Lost in the Jungle.
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The River Of Doubt – Candice Millard
Join Theodore Roosevelt on his darkest journey yet in Candice Millard’s The River of Doubt. In 1912, after a gruelling election defeat, the 24th President of the United States, known for his love of conservationism and national parks, embarked on a mission to explore the unmapped and treacherous tributary of the Amazon.
The journey was a game-changer for the Western hemisphere, and it cemented Roosevelt’s ultra-masculine image. However, few believed that it actually happened, and the former President and his team encountered unimaginable hardships along the way. In her debut novel, Candice Millard brings this incredible journey to life, from the stunning beauty of the Amazon to the starvation, disease, and even murder that the group faced, pushing one of America’s most famous men to the brink of taking his own life.
Don’t miss this thrilling and captivating story of survival and endurance in The River of Doubt.
The Unconquered – Scott Wallace
Embark on a thrilling adventure in Scott Wallace’s The Unconquered, as he takes readers on a journey deep into the Amazon rainforest in search of the last tribe to have had contact with the outside world.
With a unique first-person perspective, Wallace provides insight into the secrets hidden within the heart of the rainforest and the possibility of encountering the legendary People of the Arrow. Through this captivating story, readers gain invaluable knowledge of anthropology and the history of the world’s largest rainforest. The Unconquered is more than just a tale of adventure; it is a passionate call to preserve nature and a reminder of the critical battle to secure the survival of our planet.
Don’t miss this fascinating and eye-opening read.
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Walking The Amazon – Ed Stafford
Join Ed Stafford on his historic journey to become the first person to walk the entire length of the Amazon river in his thrilling book, Walking the Amazon.
In this personal account, Stafford takes readers on an 836-day trek through the most biodiverse region on Earth, facing constant danger from alligators, jaguars, illness, injury, and natural disasters. But it’s not just an adventure story – Walking the Amazon is also a compelling call to action on present-day environmental issues and the devastating impacts of deforestation.
Stafford’s harrowing journey is a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect our planet’s precious resources.
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Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
