Story Trees (Extraordinary Trees, Curious Histories, and Other Tales from the Folly Tree Arboretum)

From the founder of the Folly Tree Arboretum, a living archive of extraordinary trees from around the world, this stunning collection of photographs and essays explores the remarkable ways trees intertwine with human history and culture.

At the Folly Tree Arboretum in East Hampton, New York, artist and arborist Tucker Marder has created a cultural archive of rare and unusual trees. Gathering cuttings from historically and culturally significant specimens all around the globe, Marder brings together a collection that celebrates their surprising legacies.

Featuring atmospheric nighttime photography and fascinating essays, this one-of-a-kind volume explores the stories behind thirty-five trees and their unexpected connections to science, art, history, and culture—from descendants of Isaac Newton's legendary apple tree to ginkgoes that survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, an Osage orange linked to prehistoric giant ground sloths, and the White Oak in Athens, Georgia, famously known as “the tree that owns itself.” Poems, short stories, and playful illustrations complete the book.

A singular work of environmental storytelling and a striking coffee table book, Story Trees is an inspiring celebration of curiosity, conservation, and the incredible stories rooted in the trees around us.

• A FASCINATING NEW PERSPECTIVE ON TREES: Blending science, history, art, and storytelling, this unique collection reveals the extraordinary stories hidden in trees and invites readers to experience nature with new curiosity. 
• ENTERTAINING AND INFORMATIVE: From ancient history to modern culture, these surprising stories feature unforgettable connections to figures including Sir Isaac Newton, Martha Stewart, and Al Capone, offering fascinating facts and conversation starters on every page. Author Tucker Marder invites us to see each tree's personality, learn its history, and appreciate what makes it special.
• STUNNING PHOTOGRAPHY: Dramatic night photography captures the arboretum in a completely new light, creating a distinctive coffee table book for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and photography fans. 
• A HOPEFUL CELEBRATION OF THE NATURAL WORLD: Through inspiring stories of connection and resilience, this book offers an optimistic look at the relationship between humans and trees. In an age of increasing climate anxiety, it delivers a much-needed creative take on environmental issues. 
• GREAT GIFT FOR CURIOUS READERS: Perfect for gardeners, environmentalists, science lovers, history buffs, and fans of nature writing, this beautiful volume inspires wonder and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.