This Patch of Earth

Observations on a Rural Life

Published by Stackpole Books
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
LIST PRICE $24.95

About The Book

Recognized as a new voice in American Science and Nature writing

With the success of Daryln Brewer Hoffstot’s first book, A Farm Life, published by Stackpole Books in 2023, this new collection of her writings features 20+ essays of observations and insights about the fields, forest, and farm where she lives in western Pennsylvania. She writes with a deep appreciation of nature and landscape. She listens to the natural world and tries to slow down to observe, record, and understand what is happening to the plants and animals that surround her. Her writing is reminiscent of Annie Dillard, Rachel Carson who lived her early life on the Allegheny River, and Verlyn Klinkenborg. She consults with scientists, botanists, biologists, researchers, and experts and includes them in her work. She digs for the history and the local lore. Her subjects are trees, birds, wildlife, native plants, gardening, the seasons, and the environment—and she tells of them in ways that reflect her commitment to being a steward of all things natural.

About The Author

Product Details

  • Publisher: Stackpole Books (July 21, 2026)
  • Length: 138 pages
  • ISBN13: 9780811778299

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Raves and Reviews

“Daryln Brewer Hoffstot brings nature to vibrant life on the page.” 

– Susan Cheever, author of Home Before Dark

This Patch of Earth is a gem of a book. Daryln Brewer Hoffstot turns her keen eye and careful attention to the land she has lived on for almost four decades. A blend of journalism, nature writing, essay, personal history, and love letter to the land, This Patch of Earth is an invitation to witness the subtle and profound changes taking place in our own backyard.”

– Amber Caron, author of Call up the Waters

“Enlightening and closely observed. This Patch of Earth is rife with wonder, threaded by a quiet wisdom gained from years of listening to, and caring for, a beloved landscape.” 

– Rosanna Xia, author of California Against the Sea

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