‘The Overstory’ author Richard Powers answers your questions

The transcript features an interview with Richard Powers, discussing his Pulitzer Prize-winning book about trees and human interaction with nature. The book blends factual tree science with fiction, aiming to reconnect humans with the natural world. Powers shares his research process and the emotional impact the book has had on readers, inspiring them to take action against climate change. He also recounts his personal journey, which led him to move to the Great Smoky Mountains, driven by the book's themes.

What is the primary theme of Richard Powers' book as discussed in the introduction?

• The relationship between humans and the natural world

• The history of tree-saving activism

• The sociological conflicts between people

• The psychological conflicts within individuals

How does the book blend fact and fiction according to the discussion?

• By ignoring scientific research

• By focusing solely on fictional narratives

• By using verifiable scientific facts about trees

• By inventing new scientific theories about trees

What surprising fact about old-growth forests is highlighted in the book?

• They are increasing in number

• Only 2 to 5% of them remain in the United States

• They are completely extinct

• They cover more than 50% of the United States

What kind of emotional response did readers have to the book?

• Indifference

• Confusion

• Amusement

• Deep emotional connection and a call to action

What personal change did the author experience due to the book?

• He decided to write another book

• He moved to the Great Smoky Mountains

• He stopped writing altogether

• He became a tree scientist

What was the author's initial reason for visiting the Great Smoky Mountains?

• To find inspiration for a new book

• To conduct research on old-growth forests

• To attend a conference

• To take a vacation

What was the author's reaction upon seeing the old-growth forests in the Smokies?

• He decided to leave immediately

• He was overwhelmed by the experience

• He felt indifferent

• He was disappointed