Fascinating read. Would be wonderful to dip in and out of as part of a mindfulness practice or devotional type practice. A gorgeous book that will make a great Christmas gift for several of my family members.

First off, thank you to Ann Patchett for introducing me to the highly talented Margaret Renkl. I savored Renkl’s first two books, and was patiently waiting for her to publish another book. When I saw it available on NetGalley, I optimistically requested the arc. Thank you to the publisher, Spiegel & Grau, and NetGalley for allowing me a copy before the October publish date!

This was the perfect book for me to read while going through two very different hardships in my life… the onset of tinnitus and the devastating loss of a beautiful, healthy tree (that also did extreme damage to our 1927 garage). Renkl’s word are always just so right. I will definitely purchase the hardback this October.

I do not think there is anything I can say to do justice to this absolutely beautiful, perfect book! I found myself again and again in the pages and stories which describes the beauties and hardships of nature. The illustrations add to how special this book is. If you need a peaceful break, treat yourself to what lies in these pages. I will be truthful, I have read only the spring and summer half of this book. I will be purchasing this book, not only for the bookstore where I work, but for myself also. I look forward to reading the other half as the leaves fall and the snow flies. Something to look forward to! I am thankful to NetGalley and the publisher for the inside peek to this special book.

The Comfort of Crows by Margaret Renkl is a beautiful and thought-provoking book that offers a unique perspective on the natural world and our place within it. Renkl's writing is evocative and lyrical, bringing to life the creatures and plants in her backyard in vivid detail. As we follow her through the seasons, we witness the joy and grief that come with living in a world that is both wondrous and fragile.

What makes this book truly special is Renkl's ability to weave together her observations of the natural world with reflections on the changing rhythms of human life. Whether she is describing the bittersweet experience of watching her grown children leave home or reflecting on the impact of climate change, Renkl's writing is always honest, insightful, and deeply moving.

At its core, The Comfort of Crows is a book about finding meaning and beauty in a world that can sometimes seem overwhelming and chaotic. Renkl reminds us that even in the face of great challenges, there is always something to be grateful for and something to marvel at. Her book is a testament to the power of nature to comfort and inspire us, and a call to action for all of us to do our part in preserving this precious world we call home.

Overall, The Comfort of Crows is a must-read for anyone who cares about the natural world and our place in it. It is a book that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page, leaving you with a renewed sense of wonder and gratitude for the world around us.