Young Adult Authors Unplugged From Arroe Collins · Arroe Collins

Tree Spirits Around The World From Photographer And YA Author Louise Wannier

·15 min·1 clip
Arroe Collins reveals how planting 1,700 trees led to a deep connection with Louise Soignier's book on tree spirits.
This episode of Young Adult Authors Unplugged features photographer and author Louise Soignier discussing her book "Tree Spirits Around the World." The host, Arroe Collins, is temporarily replaced by a co-host who expresses a deep personal connection to trees. Louise Soignier's last name is of Swiss French origin and is pronounced in a distinctive way. The conversation centers on Soignier's photographic book capturing tree spirits from various global locations. The host shares that they personally planted 1,700 trees on their North Carolina property in 1997, creating a forest they describe as their life. Soignier reveals she was originally from Montana before moving to the Charlotte area. She states she was motivated to act after observing that the trees in her new region appeared sick. Her response was to advocate for planting native North Carolina trees rather than purchasing non-native varieties from large chain stores. A key insight is Soignier's belief that individuals possess the personal power to positively impact their local environment. The host's immediate, emotional connection to the book's title underscores a shared reverence for trees. Soignier's photographic work is presented as a way to visualize and honor the spiritual essence within trees. Her background from Montana, a region known for vast wilderness, contrasts with the suburban forest environment of North Carolina. The act of planting 1,700 trees is framed not just as landscaping but as a life-defining commitment. The tone is conversational, friendly, and infused with a sense of wonder and environmental advocacy. The style is an informal interview focused on personal inspiration and creative projects. Listeners interested in nature photography, environmentalism, and spiritual connections to the natural world would enjoy this episode. Those seeking a highly structured or debate-driven discussion might find it less engaging.
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