Steven Thackston: Flowers in a Thorn Tree: ON THE ROAD WITH THE WARRIORS FOR PEACE AND WILDLIFE

Flowers in a Thorn Tree is a book about wildlife conservation in Northern Kenya, where photographer Thackston embedded with ranger units of the Northern Rangelands Trust for three years. The rangers work to protect endangered animals and promote peace within pastoral communities, using contacts and peacekeeping to prevent poaching. The book showcases rescue animals and emphasizes the rangers' success in their important work.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 18 March 2021
Publisher: Damiani

Flowers in a Thorn Tree is a captivating tale that delves into the realm of wildlife conservation in Northern Kenya. Over a span of three years, author Thackston embarked on numerous journeys to this picturesque region, immersing himself with the ranger units of the Northern Rangelands Trust. Renowned as the "Warriors for Peace and Wildlife," these dedicated individuals dedicate their lives to safeguarding the delicate ecosystem and its diverse inhabitants. Thackston lived a nomadic existence, relying on a troop carrier as his means of transportation. Alongside the rangers, he undertook patrols, shared meals, and slept under the stars, capturing their remarkable experiences through his lens. In essence, this book can be likened to an "On the Road" adventure, as the photographer's primary objective is to present the images and allow them to speak for themselves in a nonlinear and organic manner.

The Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) rangers operate both within and outside their designated conservancies, which are spread across northern Kenya. Within the pastoral communities, they maintain close connections with individuals who provide them with valuable information regarding the movements of animal herds and potential poaching rings. Furthermore, their role extends to serving as peacekeepers, fostering a harmonious and stable environment that reduces the likelihood of endangered species being targeted for poaching.

The overarching mission of the ranger units is to instill a deep sense of empathy and understanding among the pastoral people regarding the treatment of endangered animals. The elephants and rhinos featured in this book are either rescue animals or reside on conservancies, relying on the tireless efforts of men, particularly the rangers, to ensure their survival. These humble individuals firmly believe in their work and are driven by a strong sense of purpose. Their success not only benefits the wildlife and the ecosystem but also has a profound impact on the well-being of communities and families.

The rangers' dedication and resilience are truly commendable. They undertake their duties with utmost dedication, facing numerous challenges and risks in their pursuit of protecting wildlife. Their unwavering commitment to their mission is a testament to their resilience and the importance of their work in preserving the natural world for future generations.

In conclusion, Flowers in a Thorn Tree offers a captivating glimpse into the world of wildlife conservation in Northern Kenya. Through the eyes of Thackston and the dedicated ranger units, we witness the unwavering commitment and bravery of these "Warriors for Peace and Wildlife." Their tireless efforts have not only contributed to the preservation of endangered species but also to the development of sustainable pastoral communities. The rangers' success is a testament to the power of human compassion and the significance of protecting our natural heritage.

Weight: 914g
Dimension: 251 x 222 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788862087407