Best Natural History Books of 2026

An Immense World by Ed Yong is a fascinating exploration of the different ways that animals perceive the world around them. From beetles attracted to fires to turtles tracking the Earth's magnetic fields and fish communicating through electrical messages, Yong reveals the hidden sensory bubbles that surround us. The book is filled with insightful stories of groundbreaking discoveries in the field and remains approachable and humorous throughout. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in natural history and science and will leave readers with a newfound appreciation for the vastness of the world and its inhabitants.

Wild New World: The Epic Story of Animals and People in America is a fascinating deep-time history of the coexistence of humans and animals in North America. Dan Flores, the best-selling author of Coyote America, chronicles the arrival of humans in the continent and how their success had devastating consequences for other creatures. This book traces the origins of today's Sixth Extinction to the spread of humans around the world. Flores' thrilling narrative style, informed by genomic science, evolutionary biology, and environmental history, makes this book a must-read for biology enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of wildlife in America.

Coyote America by Dan Flores is a New York Times best-selling book that narrates the incredible story of coyotes, from their origins to their current expansion across the United States. Despite being targeted for extermination for centuries, coyotes have thrived and spread across the continent. This book is a masterful synthesis of scientific research and personal observation, making it a must-read for anyone interested in environmental studies, wildlife management, and general ecology and public policy. The book has received critical acclaim and was a finalist for the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award. Overall, Coyote America is a fascinating and captivating read that sheds light on an extraordinary animal and its relationship with humans.

Botany in a Day: The Patterns Method of Plant Identification is a must-read for those interested in learning about plants in a simplified way. This book introduces eight of the world's most common plant families, enabling the readers to recognize an astonishing number of plants on any continent. The author, Thomas Elpel, has a passion for the natural world, and his knowledge is reflected in this book. The book's unique approach of teaching plant family patterns makes it an excellent resource for students, herbalists, and nature enthusiasts. Overall, Botany in a Day is a comprehensive guide to identifying plants and their uses, making it a valuable addition to any botany book collection.

A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson is a fascinating journey through the history of science. From the Big Bang to the rise of civilization, Bryson explores the oldest and biggest questions that science has sought to answer. The book is a record of Bryson's quest to understand how we got from nothing to everything. He has attached himself to the world's most advanced archaeologists, anthropologists, and mathematicians, and the result is a profound, funny, and supremely clear adventure in human knowledge. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves science and wants to understand the world around us.

Werner's Nomenclature of Colours, originally published in 1814, is a classic reference guide to colours for use in various fields of science. The book features 110 swatches of different colours found in nature, accompanied by poetic descriptions and examples from the Animal, Vegetable, and Mineral Kingdoms. The book has been used by many scientists, explorers, and anthropologists to further their studies, including Charles Darwin. This new facsimile edition by Read & Co. is a faithful reproduction of the original text and art, making it a must-have for artists and scientists alike. The book is a unique blend of art and science, making it a valuable addition to any collection.

"Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses" by Robin Wall Kimmerer is a beautifully written book that blends science and personal reflection to explore the world of mosses. Through a series of personal essays, the author reveals the biology of mosses and how they are intertwined with the lives of other beings. Kimmerer's diverse experiences as a scientist, mother, teacher, and writer of Native American heritage provide a unique perspective on the natural history and cultural relationships of mosses. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in natural history and the environment."

Secrets of the Elephants is a fascinating book that takes readers on a journey to observe the innermost workings of elephants. Through glorious photography and groundbreaking narratives, readers will learn about the remarkable intelligence, family loyalty, unique personalities, and fascinating behaviors of these majestic creatures. The book also introduces the researchers and conservationists who are dedicating their time and risking their lives to understand and protect elephants. Overall, this book is a must-read for animal lovers and those who want to deepen their knowledge of these charismatic creatures.

Silent Spring by Rachel Carson is a groundbreaking book that brought attention to the dangers of pesticides and their impact on the environment and human health. First published in 1962, it sparked a nationwide conversation and led to significant changes in environmental policies. This fortieth-anniversary edition includes a new introduction by Terry Tempest Williams and an afterword by Linda Lear, which tells the story of Carson's defense of her work against the chemical industry's attacks. Silent Spring is a must-read for anyone interested in environmental science and the history of environmental activism.

A Sand County Almanac by Leopold is a foundational text in environmental science and a national treasure. The book is a series of sketches based on the flora and fauna in a rural part of Wisconsin, where Leopold traveled through the woodlands of Wisconsin, Iowa, Arizona, Sonora, Oregon, Manitoba, and elsewhere. The book has sold over 2 million copies and remains beloved for its description and evocation of the natural world. The 2020 edition includes an introduction by Barbara Kingsolver, making it the perfect opportunity for those who haven't read this remarkable work of twentieth-century American nature writing.