Is a River Alive?

Author(s): Macfarlane, Robert,
Binding: Hardback,
Date of Publication: 01/05/2025,
Pagination: 384 pages,
Series: N/A,
Imprint: Hamish Hamilton Ltd,
Published By: Penguin Books Ltd,
Book Classification: India,
Dimensions: 243 x 160 x 35
ISBN13/EAN/SKU: 9780241624814

---

From celebrated writer Robert Macfarlane comes this brilliant, perspective-shifting new book – which answers a resounding yes to the question of its title.

At its heart is a single, transformative idea: that rivers are not mere matter for human use, but living beings – who should be recognized as such in both imagination and law. Is a River Alive? takes the reader on an exhilarating exploration of the past, present and futures of this ancient, urgent concept.

The book flows first to northern Ecuador, where a miraculous cloud-forest and its rivers are threatened by goldmining.

Then, to the wounded rivers, creeks and lagoons of southern India, where a desperate battle to save the lives of these waterbodies is under way.

And finally, to north-eastern Quebec, where a spectacular wild river – the Mutehekau or Magpie – is being defended from death by damming in a river-rights campaign.

At once Macfarlane’s most personal and most political book to date, Is a River Alive? will open hearts, spark debates and lead us to the revelation that our fate flows with that of rivers – and always has.

SHORTLISTED FOR THE WAINWRIGHT PRIZE FOR CONSERVATION WRITING 2025