Robert Macfarlane

Robert Macfarlane is a British writer and academic known for his books on nature, landscape, and the environment. His works often explore the relationship between people and the natural world, and he has received numerous awards for his contributions to literature.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Wild Places

    A Journey Through Britain's Untamed Landscapes

    The book explores the remnants of wilderness in the British Isles, as the author embarks on a series of journeys to remote and untamed landscapes. Through his travels, he reflects on the relationship between humans and nature, the history and mythology of these wild places, and the impact of modern life on the natural world. The narrative combines lyrical descriptions with philosophical musings, offering a meditation on the beauty and fragility of the natural environment and the importance of preserving these wild spaces for future generations.

    The 7652nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 2. Underland

    A Deep Time Journey

    "Underland" is a deep exploration into the world beneath our feet, taking readers on a journey into the Earth's underworlds. The book delves into the hidden landscapes of the subterranean, from the catacombs of Paris, the underground fungal networks in forests, to the deep sea caves and glacial crevasses. It beautifully combines natural history, mythology, and environmental science, while exploring themes of human impact on the planet, our relationship with darkness, and the concept of deep time.

    The 8473rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 3. Is A River Alive?

    Is a River Alive? explores the idea that rivers can be regarded as living beings. Robert Macfarlane combines travel writing, reporting, and natural history across three journeys — to cloud-forests and mountain streams in Ecuador, wounded creeks and lagoons in India, and wild rivers in Canada under threat from mining, pollution, and dams — woven with the intimate story of a chalk stream near his home. The book examines how different cultures, laws, and landscapes shape our relationships with rivers and asks what it would mean to recognize their life and rights.

    The 12128th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  4. 4. The Night Creatures

    The 13134th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  5. 5. The Old Ways

    A Journey on Foot

    The book explores the ancient paths and landscapes of Britain and beyond, delving into the history, culture, and natural beauty of these routes. Through a series of journeys on foot, by boat, and even by snowshoe, the author reflects on the deep connections between walking, thinking, and the land. The narrative intertwines personal anecdotes with historical and literary references, revealing how these old ways shape our understanding of the world and our place within it. The prose is rich and evocative, capturing the essence of the landscapes and the profound sense of discovery that comes with traversing them.

    The 17007th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  6. 6. Mountains Of The Mind

    A History of a Fascination

    This captivating exploration delves into the complex relationship between humans and mountains, tracing the evolution of our fascination with these majestic landscapes. Through a blend of historical analysis, personal anecdotes, and philosophical musings, the narrative examines how mountains have transformed from feared obstacles to revered symbols of beauty and adventure. It reflects on the psychological allure they hold, the challenges they present, and the profound impact they have on the human spirit, offering a rich tapestry of insights into why we are drawn to these towering natural wonders.

    The 17007th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon