Accessories for nature and science book lovers should include tools for observation of the natural world, right? Therefore I submit to you, dear fellow nature and science books lover, this list. A few of my favorite nature and science book reading accessories: The iNaturalist app is a joint initiative by the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society. “One of the world’s most popular nature apps, iNaturalist, helps you identify the plants and animals around you….” And it is a great community party of like-minded nature nerds.
At the seashore this summer in a tide pool? People like us frequently find themselves in them. Peterson’s Field Guide To The Atlantic Seashore Is A Guide To Life. You will need a magnifying hand lens or loupe for up close looking at lacy bryozoan species on kelp, with no euphemism (see above). Let’s talk about footwear. Hiking boots or trail-running shoes that are waterproof are a must-have because, duh, nature trails are not always tidy. Try these Salomon Quests recommended by Wirecutter for the muddy path less taken.
Furthermore, a jaunty bandana. You need one for sopping sweat from your brow, for carrying wild-picked blackberries. Travel. I love it. I live it. I breathe it. In my view, it all starts with the rush of exhilaration when I choose the magical destination for my next trip…only to come crashing down when I have to select a damn travel guide to start my research. Because you don’t want to be lugging around every travel guide. You need to narrow it down to the best travel guide books. And I mean, really narrow it down.
I wouldn’t say I like that part. We’re not talking about the travel-inspiring books. We’re talking about the more practical side of travel planning. And seriously, there are so many travel guides on the market, and it is a nightmare of global proportions to choose only one. Add to that how quickly the information can date, and you are left wondering if this is a good idea. The thing is, each travel guide has its pros and cons. Some are perfect for the USA; some have a better understanding of the winding roads of New Zealand. There are guides complete for your architectural adventures through Rome while others take you on a culinary tour of Paris. But unless you have nine months to read up on every travel guide, it’s tough to know which is the best travel guide book.
