The Overstory

by Richard Powers
The Overstory cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 733
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-09-20
  • ISBN: 9781784877910
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published: 2022-07-07
  • Formats: 25
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

The Overstory is a sweeping, impassioned work of fiction that blurs the boundaries between the human and the natural world. It weaves together the stories of nine unforgettable characters, each called in different ways by the trees in their lives. From a scientist who hears trees speaking to an artist who inherits a century of photographs of a doomed American chestnut, their stories collectively illuminate the wonders and complexities of forests. The novel challenges readers to consider the profound interconnectedness of life and the urgent need to protect our planet's ecosystems. It's a transformative read that has been praised by figures like Barack Obama for its ability to change perspectives on our relationship with the Earth.

Reviews
Reader's High Tea · 2022-01-22
fascinating 4.50

The book is super interesting with its complex storyline and diverse characters, offering plenty of opportunities for reflection.

With over 600 pages, this novel is a rich tapestry of stories that intertwine to explore the deep connection between humans and nature. The reviewer finds the book fascinating and appreciates its ambitious scope. The diverse characters and intricate plot make it a compelling read, though the length and complexity may be overwhelming for some. The novel's exploration of environmental themes is both timely and thought-provoking, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in the natural world.

Quick quotes

    The Overstory is a super interesting book.

    With 600+ pages, complex storyline and super diverse characters, it offers plenty of opportunities to ...

    The Overstory is a sweeping, impassioned work of activism and resistance that is also a stunning evocation of - and paean to - the natural world.

Gabriel Popkin · 2019-08-26
ambitious 3.00

The novel is admirably ambitious but ultimately falls short of greatness, though the world is better for its attempt.

The reviewer acknowledges the novel's ambitious and brave attempt to tackle big themes, but feels it doesn't quite achieve the greatness it aims for. The story is richly detailed and full of hope, but the reviewer finds it somewhat overrated. Despite its shortcomings, the novel's exploration of the relationship between people and trees is moving and thought-provoking. The reviewer appreciates the effort and the unique perspective, even if the execution isn't perfect.

Quick quotes

    In The Overstory, Powers has attempted something big, brave and risky.

    Though he falls short of greatness, the world is still surely better for ...

    A moving tale of the profound relationship between people and trees, and the consequences of ignoring that relationship.

The Guardian · Martin Amis · 2018-03-23
profound 4.00

The novel is extraordinary and thought-provoking, though not always easy to like. It challenges readers with its unique perspective on nature and humanity.

This novel is a profound exploration of the relationship between humans and trees, offering a fresh perspective on environmentalism. The reviewer admires the book's ambition and depth but acknowledges that its unconventional approach may not appeal to everyone. The novel's intricate storytelling and diverse characters make it a standout, though it requires patience and an open mind. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to evoke a sense of wonder and urgency about the natural world, even if it's not always an easy read.

Quick quotes

    It's an extraordinary novel, which doesn't mean that I always liked it.

    Martin Amis's brilliant description of what it's like to admire a book

    Migration meets the magical qualities of trees in the National Book award-winner's mighty story that is richly detailed and shot through with hope.

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