Forest celebrates the diverse ways in which trees and forests are as magnificent, economically relevant and profoundly enchanting today as they ever have been.

Journeying across the continents, Matt Collins and Roo Lewis tie together both the historical context and modern-day applications of some of the world's most fascinating and iconic trees.

Forest is a celebration of the diverse ways in which trees and forests are as magnificent, economically relevant and profoundly enchanting today as they ever have been.

Journeying across the continents, writer Matt Collins and photographer Roo Lewis tie together both the historical context and modern-day applications of some of the world's most fascinating and iconic trees. They explore the heritage of woodlands from around the world and meet those whose lives are inexplicably bound to them.

The book is divided into 10 main chapters, each of which explores a tree from a particular genus – Pine, Juniper, Oak, Hornbeam, Cherry, Beech, Birch, Chestnut, Douglas-fir and Poplar. Each chapter provides the reader with a short introduction to the tree, followed by a journalistic account of its relevance to modern day-life (from gin making on Isle of Islay to a truffle farm in Spain), and concludes with an account of the tree in its native forest (from hornbeams in the Ironwoods of Ontario to firs on Vancouver Island).

Captured on medium-format film, Roo’s stunning, rich colour images are the perfect companion to Matt’s engaging storytelling and botanical knowledge. Forest crafts a captivating interpretation of the story of the forest through the trees.

In Forest, Matt Collins explores the science of botany, delving into the intricate relationships between plants, animals, and their habitats. The book is a top pick for those interested in geography, ecosystems, and environmental protection.

For fans of Fiona Danks (Run Wild!), Jo Schofield (Go Wild!), and Bear Grylls (Soul Fuel).

HarperCollins 2025

Forest: Walking among trees

Forest: Walking among trees