Book Review: Vanishing Treasures: A Bestiary of Extraordinary Endangered Creatures by Katherine Rundell

A magical look at the silly little blorbos that will be needing our help in the coming years.

4/5 Stars

I'm an ADHD girlie, and when I play Stardew Valley (my most recent hyperfixation), I often want to listen to an audiobook. I tend to shy away from fiction when I am multitasking with something that takes more focus than just chores, so nonfiction works perfectly for me, as it feels more like I am listening to a podcast. Nonfiction reads are also usually where I find my next hyperfixation, so its a win/win for me! My most recent read for my video game time was Rundell's Vanishing Treasures: A Bestiary of Extraordinary Endangered Creatures, and I was not disappointed!

This book feels like a combination of Drunk (Natural) History meets Planet Earth's David Attenborough commentary with a side helping of conservation talk. Rundell masterfully crafts the "story" of each animal and its quirky characteristics as it interacts with its natural environment and with humans in their manmade environments. This attention to interesting details makes us, the audience, care even more when we are told why these species or subspecies are endangered. And since her tone never feels like a lecture, Rundell captures our imagination in both wanting to give this animal a hug and wanting to see this animal safe and sound. I learned, I laughed, and I was motivated to action. What more can you ask from a conservation book?

I would highly recommend this fun read for a road trip, puzzling time, or any hobby or event that is whimsical. It is also a good read if you are a fan of Sy Montgomery. It was a solid 4/5 Star read for me.