New review comments

I was delighted to read the following review comments on Discovering the Okapi by E.J. Milner-Gulland (original available here):

"I absolutely loved this book. As the subtitle suggests it delves deeply into how Western scientists and explorers came to discover the existence of this beautiful, shy creature, and highlights the many unacknowledged contributions, especially the peoples who share the forest with the okapi. It includes the tragic stories of individual okapis like the calf Toto and the many other okapis who died in the name of science (and because of the egos and sense of entitlement of those who wished to claim the okapi for scientific research and display). 

"It's a book of great humanity, and one which speaks not just to the past, but to the urgency of the current plight of the okapi, its home, and the people who live with it, as the area is devastated by conflict, mining and land clearance. Simon rightly notes the bravery and dedication of the Congolese and international conservationists who face danger as they work to keep Okapis on this planet for future generations, including the Okapi Conservation Project led by Berce Nsafuansa.

"All in all - do read the book! It's witty, sad, and fascinating, and combines erudition with a light touch."