Details on this month’s book:
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World
Robin Wall Kimmerrer, Author; Pub. Scribner. Paperback, 128 pages. NYT Best-Seller
As Indigenous scientist and author of Braiding Sweetgrass Robin Wall Kimmerer harvests serviceberries alongside the birds, she considers the ethic of reciprocity that lies at the heart of the gift economy. How, she asks, can we learn from Indigenous wisdom and the plant world to reimagine what we value most? Our economy is rooted in scarcity, competition, and the hoarding of resources, and we have surrendered our values to a system that actively harms what we love. Meanwhile, the serviceberry’s relationship with the natural world is an embodiment of reciprocity, interconnectedness, and gratitude. The tree distributes its wealth—its abundance of sweet, juicy berries—to meet the needs of its natural community. And this distribution ensures its own survival. As Kimmerer explains, “Serviceberries show us another model, one based upon reciprocity, where wealth comes from the quality of your relationships, not from the illusion of self-sufficiency.”
Notes:
Participants encouraged to pre-purchase and read/review selected books in advance.
No pressure to finish every page, just come ready to listen, share, and enjoy a cozy evening together.
Copies are available for purchase at Liberty HQ, or support your local bookseller whenever possible.
Story selections may include adult themes, so please use discretion when bringing young ones to the circle.
See you there!