The LRWP will host a series of book club readings and events in 2023. Our first reading will ground us in purpose and meaning: we will start with Robin Wall Kimmerer’s long essay called “The Serviceberry”.

In the Lower Raritan, the Serviceberry (Amelanchier), also known as the Shadbush (and many other names) blossoms at the time of the shad run in the Raritan River. We will read this piece in anticipation of its blooms, and in anticipation of the return of shad in the Raritan. Kimmerer’s writing is wonderful ethnobotany, and provides important thinking about the roots, meaning, and purpose of gifts and exchange. If we read and listen closely it might just offer insights into how to transform our societies.

We are so excited with the opportunity to come together as a watershed community around this article, and around the ideas of nature’s – and our – expressions of service and gift giving.

The initial book club session will be hosted virtually via webex. Pre-registration required.