This author explores the intricacies of the human experience through keen observation and poetic language. Her work often delves into the natural world, contemplating our place within it and revealing the profound connections between the internal and external realms. Through her compelling narratives and distinctive style, she offers readers fresh perspectives on the world around them. Her ability to capture the essence of life and nature has established her as a significant voice in literature.
The book explores the profound impact of Homo sapiens on the planet, highlighting humanity's role as a dominant force in shaping Earth's future. Ackerman's insightful perspective delves into the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with intelligence and influence. Through her unique lens, she confronts the challenges and implications of our actions on the environment, urging readers to reflect on their place within the ecosystem.
Award-winning nature writer Diane Ackerman confronts the fact that the human race is now the single dominant force of change on the planet. She takes us on an exciting journey to understand this bewildering new reality, introducing many of the people and ideas now creating - perhaps saving - the future.
Diane Ackerman's narrative intertwines a profound love story with a remarkable medical miracle, celebrating the beauty of language. The book masterfully blends elements of science, inspiration, and wisdom, offering readers an emotionally resonant experience that highlights the power of human connection and resilience.
Through personal meditations across the seasons, Diane Ackerman invites readers to experience the beauty of dawn and the interconnectedness of life. Drawing on a rich tapestry of disciplines including meteorology, religion, and art, she highlights the profound moments when life's essence is revealed. Spanning from spring in Ithaca, New York, to winter in Palm Beach, Florida, the work serves as a passionate reminder to cherish our fleeting time on this ever-turning planet.
When Germany invades Poland, Luftwaffe bombers devastate Warsaw and the city's zoo along with it. With most of their animals killed, or stolen away to Berlin, zookeepers Jan and Antonina Zabinski begin smuggling Jews into the empty cages. As the war escalates Jan becomes increasingly involved in the anti-Nazi resistance. Ammunition is buried in the elephant enclosure and explosives stored in the animal hospital. Plans are prepared for what will become the Warsaw uprising. Through the ever-present fear of discovery, Antonina must keep her unusual household afloat, caring for both its human and animal inhabitants - otters, a badger, hyena pups, lynxes - as Europe crumbles around them. Written with the narrative drive and emotional punch of a novel, The Zookeeper's Wife is a remarkable true story. It shows us the human and personal impact of war - of life in the Warsaw Ghetto, of fighting in the anti-Nazi resistance. But more than anything it is a story of decency and sacrifice triumphing over terror and oppression. Jan and Antonina saved over 300 people from the death camps of the Holocaust. It has already been acclaimed by Jonathan Safran Foer: 'I can't imagine a better story or storyteller. The Zookeeper's Wife will touch every nerve you have.'
The New York Times bestseller soon to be a major motion picture starring Jessica Chastain.A true story in which the keepers of the Warsaw Zoo saved hundreds of people from Nazi hands. When Germany invaded Poland, Stuka bombers devastated Warsaw―and the city's zoo along with it. With most of their animals dead, zookeepers Jan and Antonina Zabinski began smuggling Jews into empty cages. Another dozen "guests" hid inside the Zabinskis' villa, emerging after dark for dinner, socializing, and, during rare moments of calm, piano concerts. Jan, active in the Polish resistance, kept ammunition buried in the elephant enclosure and stashed explosives in the animal hospital. Meanwhile, Antonina kept her unusual household afloat, caring for both its human and its animal inhabitants―otters, a badger, hyena pups, lynxes.With her exuberant prose and exquisite sensitivity to the natural world, Diane Ackerman engages us viscerally in the lives of the zoo animals, their keepers, and their hidden visitors. She shows us how Antonina refused to give in to the penetrating fear of discovery, keeping alive an atmosphere of play and innocence even as Europe crumbled around her. 8 pages of illustrations
Celebrating the sensory pleasures of gardening, the author shares her experiences through the changing seasons. From tending to flowers and enjoying the beauty of roses to observing wildlife like hummingbirds and slugs, she embraces the unexpected moments and the tranquility her garden provides. The narrative intertwines personal reflection with a deep appreciation for nature's drama and abundance.
Richly sensual poems explore the interconnectedness of all life, reflecting Diane Ackerman's deep understanding of nature and her passion for language. This collection honors the diverse forms of existence, showcasing her unique perspective as both a poet and a naturalist.
The national bestselling author of A Natural History of the Senses tackles the realm of creativity, by exploring one of the most essential aspects of our the ability to play."Deep play" is that more intensified form of play that puts us in a rapturous mood and awakens the most creative, sentient, and joyful aspects of our inner selves. As Diane Ackerman ranges over a panoply of artistic, spiritual, and athletic activities, from spiritual rapture through extreme sports, we gain a greater sense of what it means to be "in the moment" and totally, transcendentally human. Keenly perceived and written with poetic exuberance, Deep Play enlightens us by revealing the manifold ways we can enhance our lives.
Exploring the duality of her experiences, the author intertwines her observations of wildlife in her garden with her role as a telephone crisis counselor. This narrative showcases her unique perspective, blending sensuality, science, and introspection. Through her vivid storytelling, she invites readers to appreciate the interconnectedness of nature and human emotion, offering a rich tapestry of insights drawn from both realms of her life.
