"The Economy of Sparrows" is a novel by Trevor Herriot that tells the story of Nell Rowan, a biologist who witnesses the destruction of prairie ecosystems for agriculture on her family farm in rural Saskatchewan. Herriot aimed to reach a wider audience, particularly rural women concerned about the environment, by writing fiction. The book explores the historical context of environmental issues and the challenges of protecting prairie grasslands. It highlights the endangered status of prairie ecosystems due to agricultural interests and the difficulty of restoring native grasslands. The novel also delves into the value of nature, the impact of an economic perspective on the environment, the importance of data collection, and the role of individuals in protecting and preserving the natural world. It addresses the decline of bird populations and the need for conservation efforts, as well as the connection between the natural sciences and colonization. The author emphasizes the importance of appreciating and protecting the natural world. [Extracted from the article]