National Network for Equitable Library Service

Winner of the 2024 Audie Award for Short Stories/Collection. A celebration of the beloved, award-winning poet Mary Oliver, narrated by actress and activist Sophia Bush featuring selections from the late poet's work, in her own voice, plus a tapestry of complementary voices reflecting on Oliver's legacy. Wild and Precious: A Celebration of Mary Oliver is a first-of-its-kind audio commemoration of one of the greatest poets in modern history. Actress and activist Sophia Bush guides listeners on a journey of contemplation and discovery into the artistry of Mary Oliver as remembered by many who were most greatly impacted by it. For the first time, Oliver's Bennington College students open up about what it was like to have her for a teacher, friends and neighbors recall her love of place and nature, multi-faith leaders contemplate her spiritual lessons, and high-profile artists and fans like Carmen Maria Machado, Ross Gay, and Rainn Wilson, among others, reflect on the profound influence of her poetry on their own work and lives. Wild and Precious features over 30 poems (including "The Summer Day," "When Death Comes," and "In Blackwater Woods") alongside abiding admiration for Oliver's craft and sheds new light on one of the greatest poets and writers in modern history. The result is a tapestry of sound that weaves together recollections of first-hand accounts with the poet, readings of her poetry by contributors and by Oliver herself, and personal testimonials—both heart-wrenching and joyful—of Oliver's imprint on American culture. Contributors include: actress and activist Sophia Bush, chef Samin Nosrat, poet Ross Gay, writer Carmen Maria Machado, actress Busy Philipps, writer and actor Rainn Wilson, and memoirist Claire Bidwell Smith.