Cypress

“Inspiring, illuminating, unknown. Every living thing in these swamps has purpose, reason, and beauty. For those of us who don't live in the South, Mac Stone’s images will make you fall in love with this place and come to understand why this part of the country is so precious.”—Anne Farrar, assistant managing editor for photography, National Geographic

“With breathtaking imagery and deep reverence for place, Stone reveals forests that remain powerful strongholds for birds and biodiversity, standing as living proof of what long-term stewardship can achieve. This book is both a celebration of what has stood the test of time and a compelling reminder of what must be protected for future generations.”—Elizabeth Gray, CEO, National Audubon Society

“Stone not only gives us a bird’s-eye view of these spectacular swamp ecosystems—he also gives us a panther’s-eye view, a firefly’s-eye view, a mushroom’s-eye view, and much more. Flipping through these pages is like going on an exploration. This book inspires me, and inspires all of us, to protect old-growth swamp forests now and into the future.”—Keith Laakkonen, sanctuary director, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

“Through Stone’s stunning photography, Cypress captures the grandeur of the remaining old-growth swamps like never before. Including incredible storytelling, this is an inspiring read and a must-have book on the shelves of all of us who love these ancient wetlands.”—Matt Johnson, center director, Audubon Center at Francis Beidler Forest

“Wise as the ancient forests it celebrates, Cypress is a soul-stirring expedition that roots us to a sacred wilderness. From Congaree to the Everglades, National Geographic explorer Mac Stone immerses us in the remnant cypress strongholds of the American South and reminds us of our role in securing their triumphant future: a future where the dance of the ghost orchids, the streak of tiny yellow warblers, and the rhythmic pulse of fireflies endure.”— Max Chesnes, environment reporter, Tampa Bay Times

“Stone’s photographs are compelling in both their artistry and innovation. Cypress is a book filled with unusual scenes, precious moments, little dramas, and truly jaw-dropping imagery. It is an inspirational book.”—Jeff Ripple, author of Southwest Florida’s Wetland Wilderness: Big Cypress Swamp and the Ten Thousand Islands

“Stone offers a glimpse into the remarkable world of old-growth cypress, the sequoias of America’s Southeast. He shows the rich, intricate web of life they support, including endangered orchids, rare panthers, and beautiful wading birds.”—Leslie Kemp Poole, author of Tracing Florida Journeys: Explorers, Travelers, and Landscapes Then and Now