THE FORGOTTEN TEACHERS

Appealing watercolors accompany text that emphasizes the interconnectedness of life, highlighting natural influences on the development of life on Earth.

Scientist and poet Isett explores forces that have “left indelible lessons in our DNA and taught each species a particular piece of the story that unites all of life.” The book is divided into chapters covering “Ocean,” “Air,” “Theia,” “Sun,” “Plants,” and “Symbionts.” Ocean was “the first mother of us all,” but life forms moved to live on land; when we breathe Air, it “connects us to an ancient cycle of growth, sustenance, and decay.” Collision with the planet Theia 4.5 billion years ago created Earth’s circadian rhythms. The author frames natural history in poetic terms—Sun conveys “one ancient, shining lesson: this is a place worthy of being seen”—and emphasizes the bonds among all living things—as in the mutually beneficial “dialogue” Plants have with animals. The chapter on Symbionts exemplifies the book’s blend of scientific concepts (like mitochondrial DNA, which carries “a story of mutual dependence”) with philosophical musings. Biçen’s watercolors in saturated pastels flow organically across the pages, supporting the central themes through radiant illustrations of the natural world, from double helixes to towering mountains. Eyes and hands appear often, symbolizing “the ubiquity of awareness and…the universe’s capacity to manifest life.” Crossing arbitrary divisions between art and science, the book closes by asking readers, “What story will you choose to tell?”

Evolutionary science concepts wrapped in philosophical and spiritual entreaties to value interconnectedness.