'Like a chorus of ‘yes’ to a world that has said ‘no’ once too often, these voices are defiant, joyous, vulnerable, unapologetic, badass, and simply gorgeous." -- from the foreword by Carolyn Finney Encompassing identity, inspiration, ancestry, and stewardship, the essays and poems by leading Black women and nonbinary scientists in Been Outside explore how experiences in the natural world and life sciences shape the self.

These writers and researchers contemplate the moments that sparked their love of nature, as well as the ways time in the field and outdoor adventures have enhanced or expanded their perspectives about what is possible.