7 Poetry Books to Grow a Connection With Nature

In this collection, the poetry of Jarod K. Anderson is compiled into one beautiful hardcover edition. It contains three previously published chapbooks: "Field Guide to the Haunted Forest,” “Love Notes from the Hollow Tree,” and “Leaf Litter.” 

Anderson is one of the most profound modern poets, exploring themes of nature alongside the meaning of being human.

 Known for The CryptoNaturalist podcast (and social media presence), Anderson asks readers to look more closely at natural wonders that are so easily dismissed. 

His poetry invites the reader to look at the world and all of its inhabitants with a new understanding. For those who wish to find more wonder in their universe, this poetry collection is the way to go! 

Ada Limón, the 24th Poet Laureate of the United States, presents a collection of poetry by astounding modern-day voices. The premise is simple: each poet writes about the natural environment in which they live. 

What arrives on the pages of this book are strikingly individual perceptions of the world around us, yet it still manages to exemplify the interconnectedness of this world. 

Limón looks to foster a greater sense of respect for the natural world, and these poets certainly accomplish that goal. 

A breathtaking compilation; there really is a poem for every reader in this book. If you’re not too busy falling in love with all of the pieces, that is. 

It would seem pointless to approach the topic of nature and poetry without discussing Pulitzer Prize winner Mary Oliver. Her work and the natural world are inextricably linked. 

Oliver passed away in 2019, and this book (along with her others) is a lasting gift. A selection of her greatest work compiled by the author herself, Devotions invites the reader into the quiet revolution of paying attention. 

Her words are both introspective and play with the environment that surrounds her. She isn’t shy about mentioning the creatures and plants she makes friends with along the way. 

Oliver has a funny way of reminding the reader that they are nature itself. This is a collection for anyone new to Oliver’s work, all the way to those who are intimately acquainted. The pages will be whispering for you to go outside, sit under a tree, and see what you find. 

If you enjoy older poetry, English poet William Wordsworth is a wonderful way to dive into lyrical works. Wordsworth was known for his admiration of the natural world. 

Heralded as one of the great Romantic poets, he spent much time walking outside, and this is where inspiration arrived for what he wrote. 

In The Book of Nature, Wordsworth explores nature as a whole and boasts admiration for the glory of this world. The poet’s language helps transport the reader back in time, allowing us to view the world through his eyes. 

He took in all aspects of the splendor of the outdoors, and this poetry collection invites us along on that journey. 

Another collection of work by William Wordsworth, The Book of Flowers, invites us to mingle with the plant world. You don’t have to be a flower expert to enjoy this book. 

The pages read like love poetry to the flowers themselves, allowing readers to view the images painted by the author’s beautiful language while also recognizing the reverence he held for the plants. 

This book is a wonderful selection for those who want to carry something to read on a hike, or to break out on a blanket in the grass on a sunny day. 

Wordsworth’s work will always invite the reader into a deeper relationship with the world they already inhabit, but wish to know more of.

Walt Whitman, an American poet of the 19th century, self-published Leaves of Grass and subsequently challenged what people believed poetry should be, while also approaching the sanctity of humanity, society, nature, and, well, everything. 

His words are a reminder of the extreme bounty that not only surrounds us but also resides within us. Another older work, the language Whitman offers a challenging read, with the natural environment as an anchor throughout. 

A true classic, anyone who wishes to brush up on their poetry shouldn’t skip this one. 

Poet Alix Klingenberg has a way with words that stirs the longing within. The book Hermit Season shares a period of slow softness for the author. 

Woven throughout are the beautiful descriptions of the surrounding scenery, references to animal allies who provide her with comfort, and the healing power of a simple walk in the woods. This is a moving read, especially for anyone facing a transition or the call to slow down. 

The author writes of the delicate dance one must maintain to show up for daily life and simply enjoy it. Pick this up if you’re feeling in need of a particular kind of magic.