From celebrated writer Robert Macfarlane comes this brilliant, perspective-shifting new book – which answers a resounding yes to the question of its title. At its heart is a single, transformative idea: that rivers are not mere matter for human use but living beings – who should be recognised as such in both imagination and law. 

Is a River Alive? takes the reader on an exhilarating exploration of the past, present and futures of this ancient, urgent concept. (Photo: Mark Wormald)


At once Macfarlane’s most personal and most political book to date, Is a River Alive? will open hearts, spark debates and lead us to the revelation that our fate flows with that of rivers – and always has.

“Everyone who has ever found something to love in a river should find something to love in this book. It is a masterpiece.” The Economist.