Title: How to Catch a Mole – Wisdom from a Life Lived in Nature by Marc Hamer
This book is a study of nature in the form of a memoir. Using his life as a mole catcher to share the lessons he has learned, the thoughts he has had and his brilliant insights of nature. The descriptions are luminous and clear, paired with his poetry and beautiful simplistic prints from Joe McLaren. If you like philosophy, gardening and natural history, this book might be for you. If you find mammalogy fascinating, get ready to learn some wild things about moles.
The story tends to weave back and forth through his life. Leaving home as a teen in South Wales. Wandering the country on foot. Sleeping under trees and in abandoned buildings, learning that one must adapt to survive in nature. Sharing his knowledge of what is just below the surface if you are willing to look. Using his experience to become a gardener that respects nature and wildlife. The observations that connect him to the world around him. Honoring the seasons and the circle of life with full understanding as he himself is aging, heading towards his sunset years. Thinking of retiring, reflecting on his life. He was moulded by the choices he made and life he lived.
Through his eyes we get fresh insight to what is usually overlooked or unseen. It’s up to us to take the knowledge and ideas and integrate them into our living breathing world.
