Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer weaves together Indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and personal reflections to explore the relationship between humans and the natural world. Through stories like that of Skywoman, the Three Sisters, and the Windigo, Kimmerer advocates for a reciprocal and sustainable way of living, blending her Potawatomi heritage with her scientific training. The book includes references to the forced relocation of Indigenous peoples.

In Braiding Sweetgrass, Robin Wall Kimmerer beautifully intertwines Indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and personal narratives to celebrate the relationship between humans and nature. Readers praise her lyrical prose and insightful reflections on ecology. Some find the pacing slow and the structure loose, but overall, it’s an enriching and thought-provoking read.

Readers who cherish nature's wisdom, blend scientific knowledge with Indigenous teachings, and embrace environmental ethics will enjoy Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Comparable to Rachel Carson's Silent Spring and Peter Wohlleben's The Hidden Life of Trees, it appeals to those who seek a deeper connection with the natural world.

Inspirational / Contemplative / Informative / Hopeful / Heartwarming

- Braiding Sweetgrass blends indigenous wisdom with scientific knowledge, as Robin Wall Kimmerer is both a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation and a professor of environmental biology.
- The book has gained a significant following since its release, often held as a beloved read in both environmental and literary communities, leading to its continued presence on bestseller lists years after publication.
- Robin Wall Kimmerer, through Braiding Sweetgrass, emphasizes the notion of reciprocity with nature, advocating for a relationship that is mutually beneficial rather than exploitative.

**Robin Wall Kimmerer**  
Robin Wall Kimmerer is the author and protagonist of *Braiding Sweetgrass*. She is a "flannel-shirt scientist" who combines traditional Indigenous knowledge with modern science. Kimmerer is portrayed as both a student and a teacher, guiding readers through Indigenous cultures and beliefs while sharing anecdotes from her life. 

**Hazel Barnett**  
Hazel Barnett is a character in *Braiding Sweetgrass* whose story is recounted by the author’s daughter, offering a unique perspective. Hazel is an elderly woman with knowledge of medicinal plants, demonstrating that respect for the environment is universal. Her story connects to themes of homecoming and reconnection.

**The Windigo**  
The Windigo is an abstract concept and folkloric figure in *Braiding Sweetgrass*. It serves as a cautionary symbol rooted in Indigenous folklore, representing overindulgence and environmental neglect in the modern context. The Windigo's narrative evolves to embody the anxieties of environmental consumption.

**Skywoman**  
Skywoman is a critical folkloric figure in *Braiding Sweetgrass*, serving as an entry point into Indigenous creation stories. Skywoman is a nurturing and maternal symbol whose qualities inspire the author. She represents a moral template for life and action, evolving from legend to personal principles in the author's journey.

Robin Wall Kimmerer

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Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read Braiding Sweetgrass | SuperSummary

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Overview

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Braiding Sweetgrass Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Planting Sweetgrass”

Part 1, Chapters 1-6

Braiding Sweetgrass Part 1, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Tending Sweetgrass”

Part 2, Chapters 7-11

Braiding Sweetgrass Part 2, Chapters 7-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Picking Sweetgrass”

Part 3, Chapters 12-17

Braiding Sweetgrass Part 3, Chapters 12-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Braiding Sweetgrass”

Part 4, Chapters 18-25

Braiding Sweetgrass Part 4, Chapters 18-25 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Burning Sweetgrass”

Part 5, Chapters 26-32

Braiding Sweetgrass Part 5, Chapters 26-32 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Braiding Sweetgrass Key Figures

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Braiding Sweetgrass Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Braiding Sweetgrass Essay Topics

Book Club Questions

Braiding Sweetgrass Book Club Questions

Braiding Sweetgrass Further Reading & Resources

Braiding Sweetgrass Teaching Unit

Introduction

Braiding Sweetgrass Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Braiding Sweetgrass Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Braiding Sweetgrass Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Braiding Sweetgrass Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Braiding Sweetgrass Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activity

Braiding Sweetgrass Activity

Essay Questions

Braiding Sweetgrass Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Braiding Sweetgrass Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Braiding Sweetgrass Exam Answer Key

Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants

Before You Read

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