A Journey Rooted in Nature
Some books feel like a quiet walk through the woods—steady, grounding, and unforgettable. That’s exactly the feeling William Moldwin delivers in One Hundred Species and One Family Tree, a work that blends science, history, and personal storytelling into something rare. Moldwin doesn’t just talk about trees; he connects them to family, faith, and the passage of time, weaving his own experiences with the wisdom of nature.
This book invites readers to pause, breathe, and consider how trees sustain one another, much like families across generations. At a time when the world feels rushed, One Hundred Species and One Family Tree offers a gentle reminder of resilience, harmony, and the power of connection.
“In the last twenty-five years, scientists have confirmed that plants and trees of the same species can communicate with each other by releasing pheromones or gases. In several studies, when one moth larva landed on a mature oak tree, the tree’s leaves began producing bitter tannin, making it unappealing or even poisonous for the larva.”
— One Hundred Species and One Family Tree, Albizia julibrissin/Mimosa or Silk Tree, p122
Inside the Book’s Roots
At its heart, One Hundred Species and One Family Tree is more than a botanical exploration—it is a meditation on life itself. Moldwin’s essays introduce over a hundred tree species while pairing them with stories of his family and his role as both a pastor and an observer of nature. The book reveals how trees are not silent fixtures but living teachers that guide us through lessons on ecology, growth, and legacy.
The standout quality of this work lies in its honesty. Moldwin reflects not only on the beauty of the natural world but also on the human responsibility to protect it. His writing balances the poetic with the practical, reminding us that the green revolution is not just about science—it is about spirit, stewardship, and love. This book does not rush you; it lingers like sunlight through branches, encouraging you to keep turning pages while also inspiring you to step outside and experience the trees yourself.
The Man Behind the Pages
William Moldwin’s life is as layered and rich as the forests he writes about. A retired Lutheran pastor, he has spent decades dedicated to service, civil rights advocacy, and community building. Alongside his wife Sally, he marched with Martin Luther King Jr., secured funding for mental health services in underserved communities, and worked tirelessly to improve lives in Detroit and beyond.
Now in his late 80s, Moldwin continues to inspire, publishing his reflections while living among over a hundred species of trees he has personally planted and tended. His life story mirrors the themes of his book: resilience, growth, and an enduring commitment to leave the world better than he found it. His words carry the weight of a man who has not only studied nature but also lived in harmony with it.
Why This Book Matters
One Hundred Species and One Family Tree is more than just a read—it’s an experience that nourishes the soul. It is a must-read for anyone seeking wisdom, balance, and a reminder that our roots—whether in nature or family—are what keep us standing strong. This book invites you to walk among the trees and rediscover yourself.
One Hundred Species and One Family Tree
My Love Song
Grab your copy today and let the forest speak to you in ways you’ve never imagined.