In the title of her latest work, Ohlson (The Soil Will Save Us, 2014) challenges Darwin’s theory of survival of the fittest along with Tennyson’s observation that nature is “red in tooth and claw” as it battles for existence. She posits that perhaps we are missing the generosity and connections that exist in the natural world. Through a wealth of examples, she asserts that nature is far more cooperative than previously thought. She travels from British Colombia to Costa Rica to explore examples of cooperation in nature. From the myriad connections that support forest growth to cattle ranchers altering their practices and subsequently turning deserts into wetlands, the stories are captivating and sometimes surprising. Firsthand accounts of her time spent with researchers and practitioners are fascinating. Woven throughout are her thoughtful observations along with an abundance of striking, full-page color photographs. Whether discussing individuals gardening with native plants or cities planning greener and more connected watersheds and ecosystems, Ohlson makes a compelling argument for working together and taking a lesson from the many instances of cooperation in nature.

–Maren Ostergard for Booklist