Diary of a Young Naturalist

This “stunning” memoir from a sixteen year old globally renowned youth climate activist is a “galvanizing love letter to nature” (Publishers Weekly).

Diary of a Young Naturalist chronicles the turning of a year in award-winning nature writer Dara McNulty’s Northern Ireland home patch. Beginning in spring—when “the sparrows dig the moss from the guttering and the air is as puffed out as the robin’s chest—these diary entries about his connection to wildlife and the way he sees the world are vivid, evocative, and moving.

As well as Dara’s intense connection to the natural world, Diary of a Young Naturalist captures his perspective as a teenager juggling exams, friendships, and a life of environmental campaigning. We see his close-knit family, the disruptions of moving and changing schools, and the complexities of living with autism. “In writing this book,” writes Dara, “I have experienced challenges but also felt incredible joy, wonder, curiosity and excitement. In sharing this journey my hope is that people of all generations will not only understand autism a little more but also appreciate a child’s eye view on our delicate and changing biosphere.”

Winner of the Wainwright Prize for UK nature writing, Diary of a Young Naturalist is a triumphant debut from an important new voice.

“The most moving memoir I have read in years.” —Minneapolis Star Tribune

“Empower[s] us to appreciate and protect our planet.” —Scientific American

“Heartfelt, uplifting, hopeful.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“This book will change your life if you let it” —Aimee Nezhukumatathil, author of World of Wonders

“Infused with joy . . . a title to linger over.” —Booklist

“Simple, gorgeous sentences unfurl, one after another.” —The Guardian