'As rich, satisfying and revelatory as a long walk in the woods.' Peter Wohlleben, author of The Hidden Life of TreesWhat connects Robin Hood, the history of ink, fungi, Shakespeare and sorcery?
In
Oaklore, Jules Acton, an ambassador for The Woodland Trust, explores the incredibly diverse history of the ‘king of the woods’: from a source of food and shelter to its use in literature as a plot device and muse, its role as an essential ingredient in ink, and in mythology from across the British Isles as a sacred plant and precious resource.
Acton’s infectious enthusiasm shines through in chapters that open with excerpts from oak-y poems, as well as tips for connecting with nature – like how to recognize bird songs and help moths and butterflies thrive.
Meeting fellow oak-lovers along the way, and trees like Sherwood Forest’s Medusa Oak or the gargantuan Marton Oak in Cheshire, Acton plots an unforgettable journey through the tangled roots of the oak’s story, and that of Britain itself.
"A joyful and imaginative exploration of these totemic trees."—Tristan Gooley, author of How to Read a Tree
The perfect gift for nature lovers and bookworms alike, Oaklore unveils how the mighty oak tree has shaped and influenced English literature, culture, and history.
A charming and whimsical exploration of one of England’s most important trees, Oaklore invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, unveiling the role of oaks in English literature and mythology, and the myriad of life that thrives within the branches and bark of these ancient trees: from the feathered denizens to the intricate communities of insects, fungi, and lichens.
British environmentalist and writer Jules Acton skillfully weaves together her personal experiences of wandering in the woods, scientific insights, and cultural histories to paint a rich, folkloric, and multifaceted portrait of the magnificent specimen. From learning to recognize bird songs to observing the moss and butterflies that thrive in the presence of oaks, Acton encourages a deeper connection during our own woodland explorations and celebrates the enchanted realms of oak trees.
Above all, Oaklore underscores the urgent need to protect the oak tree and the vibrant, interconnected worlds it sustains. Acton's narrative serves as a call to action, inspiring readers to engage in conservation efforts and foster a deeper appreciation for the oak's vital role in the delicate web of life.
