“In the midst of ecological crisis, Preston brings genuinely good news: a few of our fellow species are not only thriving, but demanding that we do better by the rest of life on Earth.”
Michelle Nijhuis, author of Beloved Beasts
“What a joy this book is! Fascinating, intelligent, pragmatic, and moving. Preston's tenacious beasts show us how to live with nature and claim a more hopeful future for our planet.”
Isabella Tree, author of Wilding: The Return of Nature to a British Farm
“[A] page-turning account…Many animals headed for extinction are recovering nicely, writes science writer and teacher Preston, who delivers a satisfying account of a dozen successes without minimizing the difficulties involved… Traveling the world, Preston interacted with researchers, activists, and Indigenous people working to restore animals to their former ecosystems, most of which now contain far more humans than before…Rare, well-delivered positive news about animals and the natural world.”
Kirkus Starred Review
“Preston shows that many species that once seemed doomed have posted surprising recoveries. All they ask is a fighting chance to survive; all I ask is that you read this book.”
Carl Safina, author of Becoming Wild and Beyond Words
“With grace and good cheer, Tenacious Beasts recounts the messy, fitful recovery of iconic creatures and the conservation approaches making their return possible. Preston offers vital insight to preserve biodiversity on our troubled, glorious planet.”
Ben Goldfarb, author of Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter
“Preston has achieved something remarkable: a fascinating synthesis of storytelling and science, reporting and philosophy to probe wildlife–human successes, distilling from them an understanding of how they were made possible by shifts in human perspectives.”
Peter Stark, author of Astoria: Astor and Jefferson's Lost Pacific Empire
“A captivating and astute understanding of how wild animals conduct their lives.”
Rick McIntyre, author of The Alpha Wolves of Yellowstone series
"Pragmatic and inspirational, Tenacious Beasts celebrates the species that “exist in the same bewildering net of life and time as we do,” yet are rebounding."
Foreword Reviews
"The surprisingly intimate accounts of species bouncing back from the brink of extinction serve as glimmers of hope against the backdrop of climate despair. This will hearten nature lovers."
Publishers Weekly
"Preston writes with the goal of highlighting promising partnerships, building on lessons learned from animals themselves, and questioning long-held beliefs about wildlife and conservation. VERDICT This makes for an excellent recommendation to readers searching for thoughtful but hopeful books on the future of nature."
Library Journal Starred Review
