When a Tree Falls in a Forest - Paperback

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by Chris Bentley (Author)

A moving novel about motherhood, wilderness survival, and rediscovering what matters most. Nominated for Britain's Rubery Award, and National Indie Excellence Award.

High on a ridge overlooking Idaho's Middle Fork of the Salmon River, a majestic Ponderosa pine has stood witness to centuries of change. Its branches whisper tales of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, setting the stage for each chapter of this captivating story.

Below, lives intertwine like roots in the forest floor:

Valerie, a part-time technical writer and mother, desperately trying to reconnect with her drifting teenage daughter through an impulsive rafting trip.
Maggie, a free-spirited twenty-something river guide, navigating more than just rapids as she searches for her place in the world.
Andy, a veteran wildland firefighter facing retirement, racing to warn river-goers of an approaching inferno.

As these human dramas unfold, the Ponderosa pine continues its quiet vigil. But nature has other plans, and the tree's own story is about to intersect with the lives below in ways no one could anticipate.

When wildfire threatens and the river churns, the paths of these characters converge in a heart-stopping climax. The fate of a single tree becomes a powerful metaphor, its impact rippling through the lives of all involved.

When a Tree Falls in a Forest is a lyrical exploration of interconnectedness - between humans and nature, parents and children, past and future. The storytelling weaves together themes of family, personal growth, and the raw power of the wilderness, reminiscent of the intricate narrative tapestry found in Richard Powers' The Overstory. Both works delve deep into the hidden connections between people and trees, exploring the profound impact nature has on human lives.

Fans of Barbara Kingsolver will find familiar ground in this novel's rich ecological themes and deeply human stories. Like Kingsolver's works, this book seamlessly blends environmental consciousness with compelling character arcs, creating a narrative that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

This novel invites readers to see the forest and the trees, to consider the silent sentinels that shape our world in ways both seen and unseen. It's a must-read for anyone who cherishes stories that celebrate the intricate dance between humanity and the natural world.

Number of Pages: 272

Dimensions: 0.61 x 9 x 6 IN

Publication Date: May 10, 2025