Refuge: An Unnatural History of Family and Place

In her powerful and moving memoir, Refuge, Terry Tempest Williams weaves together the stories of her family and the natural world, exploring the complex relationship between humans and the environment. Williams writes with a deep love and understanding of the natural world, and her insights into the human condition are both profound and thought-provoking.

A Story of Family and Place

Williams begins the book by describing her childhood in Utah, where she grew up in a Mormon family. She writes about her close relationship with her father, a wildlife biologist who taught her about the importance of protecting the environment. Williams also writes about her mother, who struggled with mental illness and eventually committed suicide.

The book is also a story of place. Williams writes about the beauty of the Utah desert, and how it has shaped her life and work. She also writes about the threats that the desert faces, from climate change to pollution.

The Relationship Between Humans and the Environment

Williams argues that humans are part of the natural world, and that we cannot separate ourselves from it. She writes about the importance of protecting the environment, not only for its own sake, but also for our own sake. Williams believes that we need to find a way to live in harmony with the natural world, and that this is essential for our survival.

A Call to Action

Refuge is a call to action. Williams urges us to take responsibility for our impact on the environment, and to work together to create a more sustainable future. She believes that we can still save the planet, but that we need to act now.

Why You Should Read Refuge

Refuge is a beautifully written and thought-provoking book that will change the way you think about the natural world. Williams is a gifted writer, and she has a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and the environment. Refuge is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our planet.

Praise for Refuge

"Refuge is a powerful and moving memoir that will stay with you long after you finish it. Terry Tempest Williams is a gifted writer, and she has a unique perspective on the relationship between humans and the environment. Refuge is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our planet." —Bill McKibben, author of The End of Nature

"Terry Tempest Williams is one of our most important writers. Her work is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the relationship between humans and the natural world. Refuge is a powerful and moving memoir that will change the way you think about the world." —Robert Macfarlane, author of Landmarks

"Refuge is a beautiful and heartbreaking book. Terry Tempest Williams writes with such passion and eloquence about the natural world and our place in it. This book is a must-read for anyone who cares about the environment." —Sierra Club