Storytelling and Ecology

Wise, precise, scientifically fluent while achingly expressive, and distilled from decades of practice and research, this book reimagines storytelling for this moment of ecological emergency. Nanson opens up his story-crafting processes to illustrate how storytellers can integrate different forms of knowledge, and make space for listeners’ own explorations, emotions, and aspirations. * Dr Catherine Heinemeyer, Lecturer in Arts and Ecological Justice, York St John University, UK *
The recognition within the environmental world that we are a story telling species, not a data processing species is one of the most significant developments within the environmental movement. Stories change lives; they challenge assumptions; they are also huge fun! And that is what Anthony shows so powerfully in this truly important book. * Martin Palmer, Senior Advisor to WWF International on Beliefs and Values, UK *
Anthony Nanson’s exploration of storytelling in relation to ecology is a sine qua non for eco-critics and eco-linguists, whether they are researchers, educators, or students. Nanson’s extensive analysis reframes storytelling as a tool for ecological agency. We must forget the speech-act, as Nanson, a master storyteller, brings us the story-act. * Dr Maria Nita, The Open University, UK *
Anthony Nansondoes a great job of laying out how live story performance can build an emotional connection between listeners and the environment and shows how these emotional connections are critically important if we want people to take action to protect natural areas and the wildlife that depend upon them. * Kevin Strauss, Author of Tales with Tails: Storytelling the Wonders of the Natural World (Libraries Unlimited, 2006), USA *