Book Club

Please join us for a discussion of The Light Eaters: How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth by Zoë Schlanger.

In The Light Eaters, science journalist Zoë Schlanger takes readers on a fascinating journey into the hidden lives of plants, exploring the provocative idea that plants exhibit forms of intelligence, memory, and even decision-making. Drawing from cutting-edge research and conversations with botanists, ecologists, and philosophers, Schlanger challenges the traditional view of plants as passive organisms. Instead, she presents them as dynamic beings capable of communication, adaptation, and self-awareness—albeit in ways radically different from animals or humans.

Schlanger weaves together science, philosophy, and personal reflection to examine questions like: Do plants learn from experience? Can they "see," "hear," or "remember"? And what does recognizing their sentience—or at least their agency—mean for how we live on this planet? She discusses phenomena like root "brains," plant "talk" via chemical signals, and the way plants form relationships with fungi, insects, and even other plants.

Ultimately, The Light Eaters asks us to reconsider our place in the web of life. Rather than being the sole center of intelligence and awareness, humans are part of a vast network of living systems—many of which we are only just beginning to understand.

Joining a book club is a fantastic way to dive deeper into literature, connect with like-minded individuals, and expand your reading horizons.  Love books? Want to discover new ones, have engaging conversations, and make new friends? Join our non-fiction book club! Whether you're a casual reader or an avid bookworm, it's a fun way to stay motivated and enjoy reading in a community. We’d love to have you!

New book club members are always welcome. Request a copy of the books online or at any SCPL location.