Beaverland: How One Weird Rodent Made America

Beaverland is a narrative science book that explores the beaver's influence on American history and ecology,following fur trappers, traders, and activists. It reveals the profound ways in which one odd creature and the trade surrounding it have shaped history, culture, and the environment.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Little, Brown & Company

From the acclaimed pen of Leila Philip, BEAVERLAND is a masterful exploration of the enigmatic beaver, a peculiar rodent that has left an indelible mark on American history and holds the key to its ecological salvation. This captivating work of narrative science weaves together historical accounts and contemporary storytelling to showcase the oversized role that this peculiar creature plays in shaping the destiny of the United States.

Leila Philip embarks on a remarkable journey, following fur trappers navigating treacherous waters, fur traders and auctioneers, wildlife managers, PETA activists, Native American environmental vigilantes, scientists, engineers, and the vibrant community of beaver believers. The narrative begins with the early trans-Atlantic trade in North America, tracing the profound influence of the beaver on the nation's early economy, frenzied western expansion, the birth of its first corporations, and the emergence of multi-millionaires.

Through her pursuit of this peculiar and wonderful animal, Philip introduces us to individuals whose lives are dedicated to the beaver. She meets a Harvard scientist from the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana, who employs drones to create 3-dimensional images of beaver dams; and an environmental restoration consultant in the Chesapeake, affectionately known as the "beaver whisperer." What unfolds is a poignant personal narrative, a startling portrayal of the clandestine world of the contemporary fur trade, and an engrossing ecological and historical investigation of these heroic animals, once trapped to the brink of extinction, who have miraculously returned to the landscape as one of the greatest conservation stories of the 20th century.

BEAVERLAND is a testament to Leila Philip's exceptional writing skills and meticulous research. The prose is beautifully crafted, evoking a sense of wonder and awe as the reader delves into the enigmatic world of the beaver. The book is meticulously researched, drawing upon a wealth of historical sources and contemporary scientific studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of these remarkable creatures and their role in shaping the American landscape.

In conclusion, BEAVERLAND is a must-read for anyone interested in history, ecology, or the remarkable resilience of nature. Leila Philip's captivating storytelling and meticulous research shed light on the enigmatic beaver, revealing its profound influence on American history and its potential to save the environment. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 208 x 136 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538755204