Alaska Literary Field Guide - by Nancy Lord & Marybeth Holleman & Shaelene Moler (Paperback)

About the Book

"Alaska Literary Field Guide is a rich, immersive look at Alaska's unique natural environment through poetry, prose, and art, all from writers and artists of the Last Frontier. Co-edited by three award-winning Alaska writers who are also experienced educators and naturalists, this engaging anthology highlights approximately 80 species of flora and fauna-mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, insects, plants, invertebrates, and fungi-as well as a handful of non-living elements that are a critical part of the state's ecosystems such as glaciers and the aurora borealis. Informative, science-based natural histories are provided for each species, paired with full-color illustrations from Alaskan artists and poetry from Alaskan writers. This is a field guide that emphasizes what's so special about our 49th state and presents an invitation to learn more about its natural, cultural, and artistic diversity"-- Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

• Highlights more than 90 species of flora and fauna from a variety of ecosystems
• Includes writings and original artwork in a wide range of styles from diverse Alaskan voices and artists
• Every entry features an informative, science-based natural history, including traditional knowledge

Alaska Literary Field Guide is a vibrant and immersive celebration of Alaska's wild beauty, blending science, storytelling, and stunning artwork. This unique anthology brings together a diverse range of the state's most respected contemporary poets and writers--including Kim Heacox, Seth Kantner, dg nanouk okpik, Heather Lende, and Frank Soos--alongside original, full-color artwork from 19 Alaskan visual artists such as Alvin Amason, Ray Troll, Sara Tabbert, and rising talents like Valisa Higman and Crystal Jackson.

More than 90 species and natural elements--from grizzly bears and glaciers to lichens, loons, and the aurora borealis--are brought to life through poetic reflections, vivid prose, and detailed scientific natural histories. Each "Being" is paired with a piece of writing and illustration that captures its essence, while also offering cultural knowledge, ecological context, and insight into population health and environmental threats.

Organized by ecosystem, Alaska Literary Field Guide is both an artistic tribute and an educational invitation to connect with the land, water, wildlife, and spirit of the Last Frontier. It's a field guide like no other--both a reference and a work of art.