There’s a calm clarity to the way Oslo-based photographer Maria Van Nguyen moves through the world. Guided by a deep respect for simplicity and the natural world, her daily choices speak to a life lived with care. For Table Talk, she shares three books that invite us to see the planet with tenderness.

Is a river alive? by Robert McFarlane

This is a story of harsh truths as a result of human greed.It is also a story of perseverance and hope.

Our relations to nature are re-imagined as McFarlane takes us on a journey to explore the mythical cloud forests in Los Cedros, Ecuador - the polluted lakes in Chennai, India - and the powerful Muteshekau-shipu in Quebec, Canada. The answer to the question posed couldn’t be more apparent. Here are encounters in the natural world so evidently rich with life.

Like a river, McFarlane’s words flow with harmonious rhythm. It is beautifully written with delightful observations: I find myself pausing to re-read his descriptions.A profound book that moved me and left me with a wide range of emotions, but most of all with awe for our wonderful planet that we must protect.

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Delving into the world of Kimmerer is pure bliss. With admiration I glide through the pages—eager to see the world through her remarkable perspective.

This is a tender book that shows us that another world is possible. It could all be so simple if we followed the scientific knowledge and indigenous wisdom she so generously shares. In the capitalist system we live in today there is no space for a natural world to thrive—enter: the Gift Economy of reciprocity, respect and abundance.

Science was never delivered so softly. Kimmerer joyously delivers stories of wonder and you can’t help but feel inspired. This book should be required reading for all so that we can awaken to the beauty and plentiful teachings right in front of us.

Bewilderment by Richard Powers

A magical world as seen through the eyes of a 9-year old.
After the loss of his mother, we follow Robin and his Dad as they enter a challenging chapter. Robin has difficulties controlling his emotional reactions and angry outbursts. He is bullied and doesn’t fit in at school, but fitting in is the last thing on his mind. Robin knows exactly what he needs to do, and what he wants to achieve—saving the planet.

Stubbornly (or rather admiringly) he is determined to follow his mothers footsteps (an environmental activist) to protect all beings from suffering, or rather suffering imposed by humans. While in his element he thrives like none other.

Robin has my full heart. He holds a clarity that can only come from a child—pure with unwavering belief. He is adamant in his pursue of what for him is so obviously simple but that the modern adult fails to see. People like Robin are the ones who make a new earth possible, by believing that change starts where you are, and that every act makes a difference.