Closer to the Ground by Dylan Tomine is a heartfelt and deeply personal narrative that explores the joys and challenges of living in harmony with nature. Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, Tomine’s memoir chronicles his family's efforts to live more sustainably by foraging, fishing, and growing their own food. This book is a celebration of the simple pleasures that come from being closely connected to the earth, as well as a thoughtful reflection on the importance of preserving our natural world for future generations.
Dylan Tomine, a former fly-fishing guide turned conservationist, writes with a deep love for the outdoors and a commitment to environmental stewardship. His decision to live a more self-sufficient lifestyle is driven by a desire to teach his children about the value of nature and the rewards of hard work. Tomine’s narrative is filled with the everyday adventures of a life spent outdoors—whether it’s harvesting wild mushrooms in the forest, digging for clams on the beach, or tending to the family garden.
The book is structured around the changing seasons, with each chapter offering a glimpse into the seasonal rhythms that guide Tomine’s family life. In the spring, they forage for wild greens and fish for salmon; in the summer, they harvest berries and tend their garden; fall brings mushroom hunting and the preparation for winter’s long, dark days. Through these activities, Tomine not only provides for his family but also instills in his children a deep respect for the natural world and the cycles that sustain it.
One of the strengths of Closer to the Ground is Tomine’s ability to convey the beauty and simplicity of a life lived in tune with nature. His descriptions of the Pacific Northwest’s lush forests, rocky coastlines, and abundant wildlife are vivid and evocative, making the reader feel as if they are walking alongside him in the woods or casting a line into the cold, clear waters of a mountain stream. Tomine’s writing is infused with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the natural world, reminding us of the countless small miracles that surround us every day.
At the heart of the book is Tomine’s relationship with his children and the lessons he hopes to impart to them. Through their shared experiences in the outdoors, Tomine teaches his children the importance of patience, perseverance, and respect for the environment. He also reflects on the broader implications of their lifestyle, considering how modern society’s disconnect from nature has led to environmental degradation and a loss of essential skills and knowledge. Tomine’s reflections are both poignant and timely, offering a gentle but powerful reminder of the need to reconnect with the natural world.
Key moments in Closer to the Ground include the family’s annual salmon fishing trips, where the excitement of the catch is tempered by the responsibility of sustainable harvesting, and the quiet, meditative practice of mushroom hunting, where patience and keen observation are rewarded with the discovery of hidden treasures. These experiences, along with many others, highlight the deep connection between the family’s daily life and the natural world, creating a narrative that is both intimate and universal.
Tomine’s approach to living closer to the ground is not just about survival or self-sufficiency—it’s about cultivating a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the interconnectedness of all life. He writes with humility and honesty, acknowledging the challenges and imperfections of their lifestyle, while also celebrating the rewards that come from living simply and intentionally.
Closer to the Ground by Dylan Tomine is more than just a memoir; it is a call to slow down, to pay attention, and to find joy in the simple, everyday interactions with nature. Tomine’s story is an inspiring reminder that living a more intentional, nature-connected life is not only possible but deeply fulfilling.
As Tomine eloquently observes, The closer we are to the ground, the closer we are to the truth. This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to reconnect with nature, find balance in a busy world, and instill a sense of wonder and responsibility in the next generation. Closer to the Ground will inspire you to look at your own relationship with the natural world, to embrace the rhythms of the seasons, and to find contentment in the simple, meaningful moments that nature provides.
