FACT: Turtles are the most imperiled major group of animals on earth. If you save a female turtle, she may be able to lay eggs for another 100 years.
When we decided to start a book club this year, we never anticipated how many people would be interested in taking part. Over 35 people reached out shortly after our announcement for more details, and we’re so grateful they did!
Since February 2025, readers have gathered together every other month, in person and online, to share their thoughts on a variety of both older and newer fiction and non-fiction books about owls, forests, Tug Hill cultural history, turtles, fish, and more.
Building community connections, learning new things and sharing personal stories while discussing the past eight books on our list so far has been joyful and personally impactful. So far, readers have been inspired to get outside more often, add native plants to a garden, help a turtle make a safe road crossing, explore the family property’s historic land use, consider land conservation options, and donate funds to local wildlife rehabilitation organizations.
“The book Of Time and Turtles inspired me to donate to North Country Wildcare. Their work is truly an around-the-clock effort, and funding is always needed not just to support wildlife rehabbers, but also to sustain organizations that protect wildlife habitats. – Chris Stelzer
You’re invited to join in 2026!
Readers can jump in or opt out at any time during the year according to their interests and available time to read. A Facebook group is active for reflections and conversations between meetings.
If you’d like to receive information about the book club, contact Linda Gibbs at lgibbs@tughilltomorrowlandtrust.org.
I’ve enjoyed the books, especially the July books. Of Time and Turtles by Sy Montgomery is a wonderful collection of stories. Some of the stories have brought tears to my eyes. I also made an effort to locate Elderberry tea, which is delicious.” – Malinda Zehr