Beloved Beasts . Fighting for life in an age of extinction
Michelle Nijhuis
*Beloved Beasts* by Michelle Nijhuis is a beautifully woven, thought-provoking exploration of the history of modern conservation. Far more than a collection of success stories, the book takes an honest look at the complexities, contradictions, and evolution of the conservation movement through the lives of those who shaped it.
Nijhuis masterfully brings historical figures to life, from early advocates like William Temple Hornaday and Rosalie Edge to modern champions of biodiversity. She doesn’t shy away from examining their flaws and biases, reminding us that the path to protecting nature has often been tangled with colonialism, privilege, and narrow perspectives. Yet, it’s this nuanced approach that makes *Beloved Beasts* so compelling—it celebrates progress without romanticizing the past.
What stands out most is how Nijhuis connects history to the present, showing how the work of conservationists, scientists, and local communities continues to evolve. She highlights the importance of inclusive, community-driven efforts and reminds us that protecting wildlife ultimately means protecting ecosystems, cultures, and livelihoods.
This book is both sobering and hopeful, urging readers to embrace a more thoughtful, equitable approach to conservation. For anyone passionate about nature and sustainability, *Beloved Beasts* offers a rich, eye-opening journey into the heart of what it truly means to protect life on Earth.
LAST CHANCE TO SEE
Douglas Adams and Mark Carwardine
This book is a rare and brilliant blend of humor, adventure, and deep ecological insight. What begins as a journey to document some of the world’s most endangered species quickly becomes a poignant reflection on humanity’s relationship with the natural world—one filled with both absurdity and awe.
Adams, best known for The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, brings his signature wit to encounters with species like the bumbling kakapo and the elusive baiji river dolphin, while Carwardine, a dedicated zoologist, provides the scientific grounding. Together, they create a narrative that is both wildly entertaining and profoundly sobering. The humor never undercuts the urgency of the subject; instead, it makes the loss of these creatures feel even more personal, as if we’re not just witnessing extinction but losing something irreplaceable from the world’s character.
What makes Last Chance to See so powerful is its ability to inspire without preaching. It reminds us that conservation isn’t just about saving animals—it’s about preserving the intricate and often bizarre web of life we’re a part of. Even decades after its publication, the book remains a call to action, urging us to care, to laugh, and most importantly, to act before it’s too late.
Books, podcasts and movies ...
Sharing some resources!
DEMAIN (TOMORROW)
by Cyril Dion and Mélanie Laurent
This movie is a rare gem among environmental documentaries—one that leaves you feeling inspired rather than overwhelmed. Instead of dwelling on doom and gloom, the film takes a refreshing approach: uncover practical, community-driven solutions to the planet's most pressing challenges.
From sustainable agriculture in France to renewable energy projects in Copenhagen, alternative education systems in Finland, and innovative economies in India, *Demain* highlights how people are already shaping a better future. The storytelling feels personal and hopeful, driven by genuine curiosity rather than preaching. Dion and Laurent’s conversations with activists, farmers, educators, and entrepreneurs remind us that change often starts small but can ripple outward in powerful ways.
What truly sets *Demain* apart is its emphasis on interconnectedness—how food, energy, economy, democracy, and education are all part of the same ecosystem. It’s less a documentary about problems and more a roadmap for possibility, showing that sustainability isn’t just about protecting the planet but about creating healthier, more resilient communities.
Watching *Demain* feels like a much-needed breath of fresh air—a reminder that while the challenges ahead are real, so are the solutions. It leaves you not just thinking, but wanting to act.
OVERHEARD
National Geographic
This podcast is like eavesdropping on the most fascinating conversations about our planet. Each episode dives into the hidden corners of the natural world, uncovering stories that are as surprising as they are thought-provoking. From remote ecosystems and ancient cultures to cutting-edge conservation efforts, the podcast reminds us how much there is still to discover—and protect.
What makes *Overheard* stand out is its balance of wonder and insight. The hosts approach each topic with genuine curiosity, weaving together expert interviews, immersive soundscapes, and compelling narratives. One episode might take you deep into the rainforest to explore the secrets of plant communication, while another reveals how Indigenous knowledge is shaping modern conservation practices.
But beyond the fascinating facts, *Overheard* carries an undercurrent of hope. It highlights not just the challenges facing our planet but the people working toward solutions, from scientists and explorers to local communities. It’s a reminder that understanding the world is the first step toward caring for it.
Whether you’re passionate about wildlife, travel, or sustainability, *Overheard* invites you to see the world with fresh eyes—and, hopefully, to tread a little more lightly as you explore it.
