Wild Lives: Book Reviews

A children’s-zoo veterinarian who became an advocate for the world’s dwindling cheetah population. An intrepid Indian scientist who confronted the dangerous scourge of elephant poaching. A pioneering female biologist who became the world’s leading expert on giraffes. Who knows why some people develop the passion that defines their life’s work? For some, such as investigative wildlife photojournalist Paul Hilton, it was a love of animals that started in childhood. For others, such as internationally renowned treetop ecologist Meg Lowman, it was an affinity for nature that began in the woods of rural upstate New York. With the world facing an unprecedented spate of species extinction, the survival of iconic wildlife, such as the polar bear and such lesser-known creatures as Israel’s long-billed hoopoe, is often up to courageous individuals who commit to their passion and sacrifice their comfort so that the planet maintains a healthy biodiversity. Thanks to the environmentally committed interviewers Robinson and Chodosh, 20 conservationists succinctly tell their stories in this illuminating volume that may well inspire readers to take up the cause

—Booklist (book-review magazine published by the American Library Association that helps librarians and schools decide which books buy.)

“Almost every day we hear one more story about a species facing extinction, a habitat destroyed. And indeed, planet earth has never been so threatened by human actions. This is why Wild Lives is so desperately important. The people in this book are united by their belief that it is not too late to turn things around. You will be inspired by their stories. You will realize that there is hope for the future if we join the fight, if each of us does our bit.”

―Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE, and UN Messenger of Peace, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute

“Fighting for sanctuary and safety for those most precious to them, these wildlife heroes are up against extraordinary odds, yet their courage and sacrifice remains undaunted. From melting icecaps to humid jungles, these people have dedicated their lives to helping those who can never say thank you. Robinson and Chodosh weave masterful narratives around these people, in stories that are even more astounding because they are true. Wild Lives brings into clear focus the incredible animals with whom we share the world. Be careful, it will make you want to quit your job and join the fight to save them.”
―Vanessa Woods, New York Times bestselling author of Bonobo Handshake

 “The twenty lives documented in this compelling book are truly remarkable in their diversity and commitment to conservation of species and habitats. I loved reading about each and every one of them, the different problems they encounter protecting animals and their bold and insightful solutions―a wonderful read.”
―Jane Alexander, actress; author of Wild Things, Wild Places

“Wild Lives is a most important contribution to the broad field of conservation biology. The biographical stories of twenty major contributors who constitute a who’s who of scientists who have worked tirelessly to save our planet―it’s magnificent and awe-inspiring fauna and flora―are and inspirational pieces. We are living in an epoch called the Anthropocene, often called “the age of humanity.” In reality, it is “the rage of inhumanity.” This book should be on the shelf of everyone who cares about our wondrous and fragile planet, from youngsters to seniors in all parts of the world, who want to see our nonhuman animals and plants thrive and survive despite so much that is being done that is contributing to its rapid demise. Wild Lives should be required reading for all humans, and adults should read it to youngsters, because they are ambassadors for the future. Animals and their homes need all the help they can get, and the people whose moving stories and accomplishments are covered in this book readily serve as inspirational role models for the future.”
―Marc Bekoff, editor of Ignoring Nature No More: The Case for Compassionate Conservation and author of The Animal’s Agenda: Freedom, Compassion, and Coexistence in the Human Age

“Wild Lives is a salute to the people on the front lines of conservation. Having worked with animals myself, specifically elephants, many people have inspired me, but mostly it was the elephants that inspired me. Through narratives based on personal interviews with twenty of the world’s conservation champions, readers will get an insider’s view to what it takes to save some of the planet’s greatest species.”

―Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton, co-author of Among the Elephants and Battle for the Elephants

“Some people say we live in a time when there are no more environmental heroes. Fortunately for us, Wild Lives proves them wrong. The stories in this uplifting book will inspire you to make a difference. They show that heroes for the planet can be found everywhere, among both young and old. You, too, can be a hero!”
―Todd Wilkinson, author and environmental journalist

“Great conservationists are the warriors that step up to defend our planet. Man has declared an insidious war on the earth. Each person in Wild Lives, many of whom I can call friends, is a hero who heard the whisper of this war before it became a roar; they saw the signs before they became front-page news; they heeded a call that was as yet unspoken. Their work is on the unrelenting front line of ecological destruction. They have dedicated their lives to protecting our landscapes and all the species we share them with. Mere thanks and admiration fall short. This book inspires us to follow where they lead, and to join them in striving to love and protect our earth-home.”
―Thomas D. Mangelsen, legendary nature photographer