Peter Laufer

This book was not quite what I was expecting, and that's on me. I should have paid closer attention to the subtitle. I picked it up thinking it was a popular science book about turtles: their natural history, physiology, diaspora, trivia, etc., in addition to problems facing turtles today. Turns out it was almost exclusively about exploitation through smuggling and poaching and threats to turtle populations and habitats due to development and human encroachment, interspersed with details about conservation efforts. With such a narrow focus, the book as a whole is...pretty depressing. On the other hand, I was tickled to learn about Jonathan, the Seychelles tortoise who, at age 191, is currently the oldest living land animal (a tidbit I have since shared with numerous family and friends). So while I had wanted to learn more about what makes turtles so interesting, I gained some other knowledge that is equally important. I am also left with a greater fondness and respect for turtles and tortoises.… (more)

Laufer’s engaging, empathetic writing draws readers into the struggle these uncharismatic descendants from deep time are facing with humans. Asian countries are desperate to eat them for gustatory sensations, or to render their parts into dubious folk remedies, carve their shells into trinkets, or possess them as pets. North American desire chelonians as unique pets; cute when small, but difficult to care for when reaching full size maturity. Laufer’s sense of humour keeps the mood cheerful despite darker passages. It was a compelling read, and makes me want to read more of Laufer’s books.… (more)