Title: Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter
Author: Ben Goldfarb
First published July 5, 2018
304 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781603587396 (ISBN10: 160358739X)
Rating: 4.27
Overview
Environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb sheds light on the fascinating and secret world of beavers in his award-winning book, Eager. Through his research, Goldfarb exposes the erroneous modern idea of a healthy landscape and how the fur trade led to the eradication of millions of beavers from North America’s waterways.
The repercussions of this loss were disastrous, affecting everything from the erosion of streams to the disappearance of vital habitats for countless species. Today, a dedicated group of “Beaver Believers” is actively working to restore these dynamic creatures to their natural habitats for the benefit of all.
From deserts in Nevada to the Scottish highlands, the Believers’ work is making a significant difference. Eager highlights the incredible impact of beavers, from their pivotal role in North America’s colonization to the ways they can help us combat climate change today.
It’s a powerful story of learning to live in harmony with our fellow inhabitants of this beautiful planet.
Editoral Review
Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter by Ben Goldfarb is a must-read for anyone who has ever wondered about the ecological impact of these humble creatures. Published on July 5, 2018, the book is a blend of scientific study, environmental journalism, and captivating storytelling that explores the fascinating world of beavers and their vital role in shaping our ecosystems.
Ben Goldfarb is an accomplished environmental journalist, who has written for publications like The Guardian, Outside, and High Country News. In Eager, he draws on years of research and first-hand experience to present a comprehensive and eye-opening account of the lives of beavers.
From their remarkable engineering skills to their profound effects on water systems and wildlife, Goldfarb brings to life the complex relationships that exist in the natural world. The book begins with a brief history of these shy yet hard-working rodents, covering their gradual extinction in the 19th century and the remarkable efforts that have been made to reintroduce them to various parts of the world.
Goldfarb then delves into the nitty-gritties of beaver behavior, their social dynamics, and the environmental benefits their activities can bring. He also uncovers the resistance and skepticism that have threatened the conservation of these misunderstood creatures.
While the book is primarily focused on the beaver’s life cycle and ecology, the author also sheds light on the social, cultural and economic implications of the species. He highlights how the beaver’s legacy has been shaped by human imagination and perception, and how it continues to be impacted by human activity.
Goldfarb skillfully connects the dots between the past and the present, bringing to light the crucial role beavers play in mitigating contemporary ecological challenges like climate change, habitat degradation, and water scarcity. Goldfarb’s writing is engaging, descriptive, and often humorous, making complex ecological concepts easily accessible to the reader.
The book is also loaded with fascinating anecdotes and personal experiences that add depth and an emotional resonance to the narrative. The author’s zeal for beavers may seem excessive at times, but it is the passion that underlies Goldfarb’s writing that makes the book so compelling.
In terms of critique, the book’s structure is not always well-balanced, with some chapters feeling more anecdotal than scientific. Moreover, the author’s enthusiasm may lead some to question the scientific rigor and objectivity of the book.
Nonetheless, these minor drawbacks do not significantly detract from the overall reading experience. In conclusion, Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter is a groundbreaking work that offers a refreshing and insightful exploration of one of nature’s most maligned and underappreciated creatures.
Readers of all ages and backgrounds will find it an enjoyable and informative read. Without doubt, Ben Goldfarb’s book is a reminder that understanding nature is the first step in appreciating the life-sustaining web that surrounds us.
Highly recommended. Rating: 4/5
