by Jessica J. Lee, PhD
Introduction. Two Trees Make a Forest is an impressive work of literature by Dr. Jessica J. Lee, an environmental historian holding a PhD in Environmental History and Aesthetics from York University. In her book, she explores the landscapes of Taiwan and her place within them, embodying the dual identity of an immigrant with Taiwanese-Canadian heritage and an environmental historian. Her journey is personal yet universal, unraveling family roots and personal identity within Taiwan’s natural world.
Analysis. Dr. Lee’s narrative is an engaging blend of personal exploration and vivid nature writing. Using her grandfather’s letters as a map, she traces her family history through the rich and predominantly mountainous landscapes of Taiwan. However, her journey doesn’t stop there. Amidst Taiwan’s verdant mountains and bustling cities, Lee also searches for her identity, reflecting on her life as an immigrant, the space she occupies between two cultures, and her bond with nature. Dr. Lee clearly expresses that she is searching for an identity anchor-point, some aspect of Taiwan that she can connect with as being a part of her family’s legacy.
Evaluation. Two Trees Make a Forest stands out with its honest and evocative language. Dr. Lee skillfully utilizes her background in environmental history to vividly paint the Taiwanese outdoors in an accessible and engaging way. Yet, it’s her personal journey of self-discovery, her immigrant experience, and her deep connection to nature that makes this book resonate with readers, extending its appeal beyond those interested in nature writing or memoirs. This book delivers a sense of closure for readers who may connect their own life narratives to those described by Dr. Lee in this book.
Conclusion. Dr. Jessica J. Lee’s Two Trees Make a Forest is an immersive exploration of identity, history, and our connections with nature. It is a rewarding read not only for those interested in personal narratives or environmental studies but also for anyone who has ever grappled with questions of self and place. Through her journey, Dr. Lee underscores that our identities are as complex and interconnected as the natural world we inhabit, offering readers a thought-provoking expedition into their own understanding of self and place.