Summary:
"In these twenty elegant essays, a philosopher and amateur naturalist meanders along the rivers and streams of the american West-and muses on love, loss, aging, motherhood, happiness, the art of poking around, and other important matters. “A smart, compassionate, and wise meditation on living in place” (Terry Tempest Williams)."
Author's Website: https://www.riverwalking.com/
Reviews:
Kirkus: https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/kathleen-dean-moore/riverwalking/
Interview with Author: https://www.terrain.org/2018/interviews/kathleen-dean-moore/
"If Your House is on Fire": https://www.thesunmagazine.org/issues/444/if-your-house-is-on-fire
(Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oregon_Dunes_National_Recreation_Area)
Discussion Questions: (Written by Donna, who will be leading our discussion)
1.
Ms. Moore interweaves many family
stories into her reflections on natural history and her adventures along the
waterways. Too much so? Could you share a story about your family
enjoying the great outdoors?
2.
Winter Creek – “Poking around is
a guaranteed way to learn” (p. 36)
re-creation, impressions, connections, recollections. If someone asks, “Who are you?” How would you answer? I am a person, who……..
a.
McKenzie R. – taxonomy – Why do
we love to learn the names of the flora and fauna we encounter on our
forays? Might this detract from, or
enhance the experience?
b.
Aquajita Wash – desert arroyo –
Why do we make lists of the birds and trees, rocks and trails from our various
trips and outings?
3. Alamo Canyon Creek – rattlesnakes – What is it about snakes? Do you have a favorite snake story? Have you been to the desert?
4. Bear Creek – shifting sand dunes – The author’s secret camping
spot was transformed into a visitor’s site, complete with parking, restrooms, and
interpretive signs. Can you recall a
special place like this from your past that has changed?
5.
Smoholla R. – nesting instinct –
Have you been camping lately? Tell us
about your home
base arrangements.
6.
The John Day – happiness depends
on tranquility and excitement – Do you agree?
Have you ever turned to nature in times of trouble, sorrow, or grief?
7.
Moore includes interesting facts
about the flora and fauna and people in her essays; newts, ticks, John Day, salmon,
etc. What was your favorite piece or new
thing you learned?
