Gaia acquires The Great Tree Story by British explorer Levison Wood

Gaia (part of the Octopus Publishing Group) has acquired The Great Tree Story: How Forests Have Shaped Our World by Levison Wood.

Commissioning editor Jessica Minocha acquired UK, Commonwealth (excluding Canada) and European English language rights from Jo Cantello at Wolfsong Media, and the book will be published in April 2025 in hardback.

"In this global investigation, The Great Tree Story: How Forests Have Shaped Our World explores the profound influence forests have had on our planet and civilisation," the synopsis says. "Each chapter digs into a different aspect of this relationship, from the evolutionary history of trees and their cultural significance in ancient civilisations, to the impacts of agriculture, colonisation, and the industrial revolution on forest ecosystems. The book highlights the wisdom of indigenous communities in forest stewardship, examines the environmental movement’s efforts to protect forests, and analyses the causes and consequences of deforestation and environmental degradation."

Minocha said of the acquisition: "With his vast experience as a global explorer, Levison has seen firsthand the degradation of our forests. This book is a clarion call to pay attention to the trees around us and to participate in the fight for their survival—and ours. This ambitious book will be on the nature shelves for many years to come."

Wood commented: "Trees have always been part of my life—whether it was collecting conkers as a child, trekking through jungles on expeditions, or standing in awe beneath the ancient oaks of Sherwood Forest. Over the years, I’ve come to see that trees aren’t just part of the landscape; they’re part of what unites us. Trees are embedded into our history, culture and identity. Writing this book has been a journey to uncover how deeply interconnected we are with forests."