Sir David Attenborough is many things - all of them wonderful. He is a broadcasting titan, whose passionate, semi-whispered narration of the natural world has been adored for generations. He is also an environmental warrior who has delicately shown us how we have harmed our plantet and what we can do to make it right. Along the way, he has rightly become nothing short of a national treasure - a charming, adorable and admirable grandfather figure for generations...
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A fascinating and entertaining collection of facts, quotes and stories, celebrating Sir David Attenborough's wicked sense of humour and astute wisdom.
David Attenborough is a national treasure, known for his soothing voice, calming presence, passion for the natural world, and his humble, easy-going nature. Despite his incredible talent and influence, he tends to play it all down, one time stating that, 'I can't believe I'm still employed'.
So if he won't celebrate himself, we'll have to do it for him.
Filled with facts, tributes and anecdotes, as well as beautiful illustrations, this enormously positive book celebrates Sir David, providing a fascinating insight into his life as well as showcasing his brilliant sense of humour. Running chronologically, this book begins with his early days, to his first job at the BBC, to eventually becoming the most esteemed naturalist on the planet, as he is today.
Such revelations include:
- There are 18 plants and animals named after him
- When asked by a reporter how many degrees he had, he said it would be 'rude to count'*
- The single thing that would improve his quality of life is 'good, workable knees'.
Blending his quips galore with his powerful messages on the environment and future of the planet, this timely book showcases everything we love about Sir David, making it the perfect gift for any fan.
* He has over thirty!
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It is very clear from the opening paragraph at the top of this page that the author is a huge fan of Sir David Attenborough. And why wouldn't he be? Throughout this book Mr Newkey-Burden goes on to provide evidence of the qualities and attributes of the incredible Sir David Attenborough.
The book comprises of five sections in the life of Sir David:
1. The Making of David Attenborough
2. Hitting the Small Screen
3. The Broadcasting Titan
4. Protector of the Planet
5. The Legacy
Throughout these chapters the prose is presented in snippet form, detailing biographical information, anecdotes, facts and interviews from his life. Interspersed throughout are some lovely line illustrations depicting everything from a puffin to a sundial. These complement the text nicely and certainly add to the appeal of the book.
This was an effortless and fascinating read. I read it in hardback form and it is sized that it is easy to slip into a pocket or handbag. Also, the nature of the writing made it an easy book to dip in and out of.
Although this book has not been endorsed by Sir David it is a celebration of the life and accomplishments of a great man. Fans of environmental issues or admirers of Sir David Attenborough will enjoy this book very much.
ISBN: 978 1856755269
Publisher: Gaia
Formats: e-book and hardcover
No. of Pages: 272 (hardback)
About the Author:
Chas Newkey-Burden writes about animal rights, veganism and the environment for the Guardian, Independent, the i, Metro and the Daily Telegraph.
He is the author of dozens of books, including, Running: Cheaper Than Therapy, The Runner's Code, Get Lucky: Rituals, Habits and Superstitions of the Rich and Famous and The Reduced History of Dogs.
(book and media images courtesy of Random Things Tours)
(all opinions are my own)
Thanks for the blog tour support x
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