Wild Houston

Pros: As someone who grew up in the Houston suburbs, this book was like a grown-up version of some of the classes I took in school, including my fourth grade science and Texas History classes and my high school biology class where we collected insects and wildflowers.

I think this book would be a wonderful welcome gift to a new neighbor who has just moved to the Houston area. It has fantastic information about the diversity of the area—I especially enjoyed the 101 species to know section. There are also great photos throughout. I thought the trip ideas at the end of the book were a special and practical inclusion!

My favorite part about this book was that it acknowledges the (harmful) impact humans and the growth of population in the area have had on nature and the environment. It encourages people to be out in nature but also warns people about how humans affect nature.

Cons: I found the cover of the book to be very misleading. I thought this was going to be an illustrated children’s book based on the cover art.

Thank you to NetGalley and Timber Press for the opportunity to read this book.

As I am currently planning a trip to Texas to visit some relatives I found his book most interesting and helpful in finding out a bit more about Houston and what it has to offer. But not just that it also is like a history book in that you learn about what has made Houston what it is today, how all this factors into the wildlife, flora and fauna of the area.

As a person who likes to explore the outdoors this is just what I was wanting from a book like this and is a great guide to the nature of this area.

Such a nice about about history and nature with clear photographs, cute pictures, and concise texts. Thank you the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for sending me this e-ARC.

Great information. I have lived in Houston my entire life and did not know how much rich environmental diversity we have here. Wonderful pictures.

I haven’t been to Houston yet but like to thoroughly research the areas that I plan visit before I go. This is a great resource to do just that. This covers more of the natural world in and around Houston rather than the usual hotspots. Beautiful pictures accompany a fascinating exploration of the bayous of Houston and its inhabitants from the air, land, and sea. There is also a history of the settlers of the area and what drew them to the land. Of particular interest is the section in the back with the comprehensive guide, “101 Species to Know”, with descriptions and photographs of the birds and fish of the different areas. Recommended for those who want to go off the beaten path and connect more with the nature of Houston.

Not what I was expecting from the cover. I was surprised! This is a thoroughly detailed reference book, with the use of photographs not illustrations.

It begins with history and an animal and plant index. Then the remainder of the book features 25 trips you can take, with a map of things to do and see.

Instructional and informative.

This is a great nonfiction talking about nature found in the Houston, Texas area. As a native to the area, I highly enjoyed how I was made aware of the importance Of our local ecosystem. I think this could work in a myriad of settings, such as, a high school library,extra-credit reading for a biology undergrad course, a guide for locals and visitors alike. I hope that anyone who finds this book also feels inspired to keep Houston beautiful.

This book is very interesting, and I learned a lot about Houston. I found several new places to visit next time I'm in the city, and I really enjoyed learning more about native species.

I'm always curious about wild life in urban environment and this excellent book was both informative and entertaining.
Well written, lovely pictures.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

I did not know much about Houston before reading this title. I didn’t even know that it was a “Bayou City.” Now I have learned much more and this book was an enjoyable way to do just that.

The book’s authors make an important point early on when they observe that nature can also be found in cities. That is the case of Houston and its environs as presented in these pages.

Readers will enjoy exploring the three sections of this book. The first is about landscape, people and organisms. Next are 101 spotlighted species; would readers have guessed that there were so many around the area? The third part (and my favorite) features twenty-five field trips. If I ever get to Houston I will know where to go and what to look for.

Those who live in Texas or plan to visit, give this one a look. It is a terrific resource. Those who may never get to Houston, there are many photos to inspire you

Many thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press for this title. All opinions are my own.

I love learning about wild environments around the world and was eager to check out "Wild Houston" for that very reason. This was a great read that takes you into the bayou, understanding why Houston is so bio-diverse, the importance of urban greenspaces, and nature-based solutions. The writing captures an incredible world that draws you into it and fully immerses you which pairs well with the stunning photographs. I can't recommend this book enough. I learned so much from reading it.

Suzanne and John have gone above and beyond with this book! As a Houston area resident, I was enthralled by how detailed and well thought out this book was. Not only was the book more than just any old guidebook, it provides detailed information that speaks to the natural history of our region. I hope this book is picked up by every budding naturalist in the Houston area!

I really liked how Wild Houston dove into the variety of life in the Houston area - plants and animals, and the sites where you can walk around and observe at different times in the year. It's perfect timing now, too, as the major heat subsides, to appreciate what is here. I saw some of my favorite walks and have many new ones added to the list! Must have if you visit or live in the Houston area.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Timber Press for the ARC.