Enrique Salmón’s Iwigara introduces readers to 80 plants that are significant in Native cultures across North America, weaving together Indigenous knowledge, stories, and uses with botanical and ecological information. Organized by plant, the book explains traditional food, medicinal, and ceremonial roles alongside scientific names, ranges, and growing conditions. The result is both field guide and cultural text, grounded in the concept of “iwigara,” the Rarámuri idea that all life shares the same breath.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because this is exactly the kind of book that treats Indigenous knowledge as science, not anecdote, and situates plants inside relationships rather than just lists of properties. It’s a great pick for gardeners, foragers, and readers interested in Native science and land-based knowledge.

DETAILS: • Author: Enrique Salmón
• Publisher: Timber Press (OR)
• Format: Hardcover
• Publication Date: September 15, 2020
• ISBN: 9781604698800
• Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days