Flames of Extinction: The Race to Save Australia's Threatened Wildlife

In the early months of 2020, Australia experienced unprecedented wildfires that caused the deaths of up to three billion animals. Flames of Extinction, written by a journalist at the heart of the news coverage, tells the stories of the wild animals and plants that were affected by the fires and the efforts of scientists, wildlife rehabilitators, and community members to save them. The book serves as a warning to the rest of the world about the impact of climate change on wildlife and the importance of protecting them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2021
Publisher: Island Press

In the early months of 2020, Australia captivated the world's attention as its iconic wildlife battled for survival against unprecedented wildfires. Images of koalas drinking from firefighters' water bottles went viral, becoming the global face of a catastrophe that would claim the lives of up to three billion animals. This calamity, known as the Black Summer, resulted in the highest number of wildlife deaths and near-extinctions in Australian history. Flames of Extinction, written by a journalist at the forefront of this news coverage, is the first book to delve into the stories of Australia's record-setting fires, focusing on the wild animals and plants that will forever be impacted.

As the news of the fires spread worldwide, journalist John Pickrell received numerous requests for articles about the threat to Australia's wildlife. The situation appeared dire, with charred koalas and flames that burned so hot that even animal skeletons were left behind. However, Pickrell's reporting revealed a broader perspective of hope. Flames of Extinction tells the story of the scientists, wildlife rehabilitators, and community members who united to save wildlife and ensure their protection in the future.

As climate change intensifies and devastating wildfires become more frequent, Australia's Black Summer serves as a poignant warning to the rest of the world. Through evocative and urgent storytelling, Flames of Extinction takes readers to the ground, allowing them to witness the aftermath of one of Australia's greatest tragedies and experience the inspiring efforts to save lives.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 160 x 237 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642832020