The Legacy of Luna Book Review
The experiences that Hill endured are an impressive testimony of the fight to preserve the environment against the commercial interests of companies that benefit from nature’s resources. This 26-year-old activist who took the nickname “Butterfly”, climbed a sequoia named Luna in California in 1997. Her act was part of the efforts of an environmentalist group that defends the preservation of the forests because a lumber company was excessively cutting trees.
Her plan was to remain on Luna for several weeks, but when faced with the apathy of the millionaire company and because of her undeniable commitment to the preservation of nature, she decided to live in the tree for as much time as was necessary. Hill remained 180 feet off the ground for two years.
“I have survived storms, harassment, solitude and doubts. I have seen the magnificence and the devastation of a forest older than almost all the forests of the planet. I live in a tree called Luna. And I am fighting to save it’s life” relates Hill, who was named one of the “Most admired women” by Good Housekeeping Magazine. In addition, this activist is a founding member of the Circle of Life Association, dedicated to promote the preservation of forest life.
The Legacy of Luna is a simple and inspiring book. It is a real example of how the dedication of a small group of people can defy powerful capitalist companies. Its value is in the strength of its narrator, in her vision and understanding of the role people undertake as active participants of nature.
Hill, in her testimony, demonstrates that the preservation of the environment is a cause that anyone can defend, be it in an urban city or in a remote location. After all, she did it on a tree 180 feet off the ground.
