“The best science and nature writing—which these stories represent—reminds us of the wide world
and our connection to it and the multitude of ways we make our place in it ” writes Susan
Orlean in her introduction. This year’s collection masterfully guides us through exotic
locations and groundbreaking research leading us to consider complex and utterly fascinating
questions about the world. How does it feel to camp in one of the hottest places on Earth? Is
the ability to recognize and remember faces a sign of intelligence? What does it mean for a
species to be wild or invasive—are city pigeons and rats less deserving than the coyotes that
recently wandered down from Westchester? Encompassing the strangeness and at times severity
of our world these stories are urgent vital and ultimately inspiring. As Orlean eloquently
observes “Science keeps unlocking mysteries revealing secrets helping us heal. And as
imperiled as nature seems it remains amply gloriously gorgeous: The world is still full of
beauty.” THE BEST AMERICAN SCIENCE AND NATURE WRITING 2025 INCLUDES : FERRIS JABR • EMILY
RABOTEAU • RIVKA GALCHEN • BEN GOLDFARB • DAVID NAIMON • TOM MCALLISTER • KATIE ENGELHART • AND
OTHERS
