The Naturalist's Notebook

It’s funny.  Although I love being out in nature, I had never thought of myself as a true naturalist; that is until I read The Naturalist’s Notebook.  The naturalist title seemed like something that you need a specific type of college degree for, or an extensive training in science and the environment.  However, through The Naturalist’s Notebook, I now realize that anyone who has an appreciation for nature and the natural world around them is a naturalist.  This book is a perfect introduction for those who are new to recording their observations in nature, but it would be great for the seasoned naturalist as well.  The Naturalist’s Notebook is a guide on how to record your observations of nature onto paper.  Tips are offered on what to look for and how to look for it.  It is extremely detailed on how to start noticing the world around you and how to record what you see.  I also loved that the book was personal.  The authors described their love nature, where it came from, and how it has continued to flourish.  It also includes a five year calendar where you can mark your observations and see how they have changed or stayed similar in that five year period.  The book itself is gorgeous: the illustrations of plants, animals, trees, and so on are absolutely amazing.  I would recommend The Naturalist’s Notebook to anyone who has an interest in nature, no matter how big or small it is.  It has inspired me to get out into nature even more than I had before.

A good portion of this book is a planner for the reader, a calendar to keep track of all the wondrous things they encounter in the natural world. The author also explains the art of mindfulness, of being still, of being observant, of being present in the natural world. The illustrations are exquisite, the kind you can lose yourself in. A must have for nature lovers

Wow! This book could be life changing. For children discovering not just how to relate to nature but  learning how to observe. Life changing for anyone who wishes to see, to notice, to learn. 

The illustrations, the information and guidance, the empty pages waiting to be filled. A treasure. Not so much opening a door but in this case, pages opening up a world of beauty that will enliven any life.

This book is gift and the time spent creating it, obviously a labor of love. It was a privilege to come into contact with this book,

I really like how this book is like a dictionary or encyclopedia for any outdoorsman. I also like that it helps you to be more aware of what you use and to make so there are no harmful chemicals or side effects. This book is a must have for anyone who wants to have a healthy lifestyle. A must read.

Beautiful and complete guide for those wishing to connect more with nature. The observational tips, charting and graphing techniques and seasonal guide offers many ideas and approaches for learning to appreciate your natural surroundings.

Are you a citizen scientist who wants to take your observations to the next level? Do you have a little one in your life who wants to be more systematic about what they see? Do you love notebooks? This is a title that belongs in every hand and out in the woods, in parks, and in every back yard. Why? Not only do Wheelwright and Heinrich bring their experiences to explaining how you learn to observe nature, they give you a simple notebook to use to begin immediately to record your observations. Each year I say “this year I’ll write about the birds at the feeder”, however I become overwhelmed by what to write and how to write it, so nothing gets recorded beyond a few photos I post to Instagram.

This title provides useful tips whether you’ve been systematically observing nature for 30 years or are new to taking notice beyond when the first robin appears in your yard. In addition to explanations as to how to grow observational skills, you also learn how to take notes and record observations. There are simple experiment ideas that I believe are a great not only for little ones, but also adults.

The title also includes with a simple 5-year journal to record observations. I this this is a wonderful pairing of topic, form, and function. It is a beautifully laid out book, I love the illustrations, and the journal is begging for me to write what I see. I highly recommend The Naturalist’s Notebook for everyone curious about honing this skill!

Oh My Goodness! I wish I had this guide/ journal two years ago when I first started birding! 
This is a wonderful observation guide and journal for people who enjoy the nature of flora and fauna. The format is easy and simple to use as you would your calendar. I like being able to find my notes by date so I can prepare for the next season.
The ability for a five year record of my notes, dates, and places is a great help for anyone who like to keep a journal of natures outdoor events as it pertains to your hikes, walks, travel, stargazing, and nature sports. This will make a great gift book for your friends who join you on your outdoor observations.