Braiding Sweetgrass Evaluation

Braiding Sweet Grass is a nature writing, written by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Its main focus is nature, but more specifically the significance it has towards our planet and everyday life. Kimmerer provides examples of how we can treat plants the way we treat humans; with a little respect. A reader of this novel will end up with a greater appreciation for nature and what it has to offer after reading this. As a result of this I recommend this for everyone to read.  

One thing Kimmerer’s message about nature does to the reader that most books have a hard time doing is developing emotions humans have towards nature. She does this by teaching us how we can show respect towards nature “I’ve come and ask their permission to harvest, inquiring politely if they would be willing to share” (175). She shows tells the plants the reason for harvest is because “in order to live, I must consume.” (177). If everybody had respect for nature the way Robbin did, all of the pollution, habitats destroyed and harm humans are currently causing our planet, would be very minimal. She also questions whether the crop is ready to be harvested by the amount it has to offer to not only her, but as many people as possible.

As a result of the growing population, “plastic seeds” or genetically modified organisms were created to provide less work, time and use as little resources as possible. At the same time provide the most yield. After reading her book, I am confident Kimmerer would also argue these crops aren’t a spawn of nature, but a result of a lab experiment. This can make respecting a crop almost impossible, because who can show love or emotion towards something artificial. Growers of theses crops don’t talk to their crops or ask them if they’re ready to be harvested, they want them planted and pulled out of the ground for profit as soon as possible.

            In a review of Braiding Sweet grass the writer makes a good point when she states, “understanding the particulars of the plant biology without being too dry” (32). She describes how Kimmerer can describe plant biology with personal stories, humor and helpful tips.

            In conclusion, I would certainly recommend this book for everyone to read, even if you don’t like nature. If everybody can develop a relationship Kimmerer has with crops, then we can live a much healthier life. By reading her book I appreciate plants and more specifically crops significantly more.