In Search of the Old Ones

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
“Fredericks adorns the science with poetic flourishes, including scenes depicting what humans were doing around the time that some of the oldest existing trees sprouted. […] the author’s reverence for his subjects endears (“Wise teachers, those redwoods”). The result is a ruminative exploration of some of the oldest living organisms on Earth.”

CHOICE

“In an engaging narrative written with awe and wonder, Fredericks (emer., education, York College of Pennsylvania) takes the reader across the US to appreciate ancient trees and the landscapes around them. Each of the ten trees and forests explored begins with stories from when a single seed sprouted, which may have been from 1,000 to 13,000 years ago, before returning to the present. Using interviews and quotes from dendrochronologists and other researchers and conservation groups working to protect ancient trees, Fredericks weaves a chronicle of how these trees and forests have come to be, what challenges they face now and in the future, and what inspirations or impact on the senses visiting these landmarks and testaments to time may have on a person. Eight chapters explore western forests, with their bristlecone pines, redwoods, sequoias, and trembling aspen, but other species are visited in the eastern US, including oaks and bald cypress. Fredericks includes many thought-provoking considerations throughout. An appendix catalogs several of the oldest trees in the world outside of the US. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readership levels, but especially general readers.”


THE HEALTHY PLANET MAGAZINE
“This book reads as a pilgrimage. [Fredericks’] journey, wide-ranging thoughts and information come to life in his book In Search of the Old Ones, an Odyssey among Ancient Trees. […] Along with stories about life at the time these trees took root, there is vast information about what scientists know about these trees, how cores are taken to determine exact age and mention of other writings about these ancient lives. There are no glossy photographs, instead lovely black, white, and gray illustrations of the featured trees and land. Phyllis Disher Fredericks and Rebecca Noelle Purvis are the illustrators. Their drawings give the book a nature journal feel that makes for a more personal and intimate communication between the tree, artist, and reader.”

“In Search of the Old Ones is a great companion for anyone exploring the outdoors. This book is a spiritual guide to help us appreciate trees, groves, and forests. It humbly asks us to understand and protect these companions that have patiently provided us with support, energy, shade, relief, inspiration, and beauty. I can picture John Muir sitting in front of these Old Ones, in the same way that Anthony Fredericks did, inspiring a generation of conservationists to act in the face of climate change and other defining challenges of our times.” —Ramón J. Cruz, president of the Sierra Club

“Beautifully written and brimming with amazing information. Fredericks is an acute observer who explores the miracles that trees are.” —Beth Moon, photographer of Ancient Trees: Portraits of Time

“A fascinating investigation into our relationship with ancient trees and how they reveal so much about our environment and our past.” —Tristan Gooley, author of How to Read a Tree

“In Search of the Old Ones is a delightful journey throughout the United States to visit the country’s most ancient trees. It’s an exploration of awe-inspiring veteran trees of different species. This fascinating book offers a unique and enlightening perspective on these arboreal wonders, weaving together historical anecdotes and a deep reverence for nature. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history enthusiast, you’ll love this book.” —Holly Worton, author of If Trees Could Talk

ANTHONY D. FREDERICKS is Professor Emeritus of Education at York College of Pennsylvania. He has published more than 170 adult nonfiction and children’s books, including The Secret Life of Clams, Horseshoe Crab- Biography of a Survivor, and Desert Night, Desert Day. He has also written for Psychology Today, High Country News, Hawaii Magazine, and more. An educator for nearly 50 years, he has taught science workshops, made natural history presentations, and led field trips throughout North America.

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