The Ten Trusts

July 22, 2002
Goodall (My Life with Chimpanzees; Reason for Hope) and Bekoff, a biology professor at the Univ. of Colorado, offer a prescriptive conservation plan designed to protect animals as well as help educate people about the importance of saving both animals and the environment. The authors, who have also worked on Roots & Shoots, an international service program for young people, explain their position by including personal recollections and statistical evidence. Their position—that people have chosen to destroy both animals and habitats and will continue to do so unless they radically change their behavior—is stressed throughout the book: "It is sad to have to put a monetary value on the wilderness and on animal species. But until the wealthy nations can agree to pay an annual 'rent' on huge areas of land, it seems likely that governments in the developing world will exploit their natural resources in any way they can...." The steps to action, including "Praise and Help Those Who Work For Animals and the Natural World" and "Value and Help Preserve the Sounds of Nature," are sound. For example, having children work with animal protection programs has already been successfully tried. Suggesting that kids "adopt" animal programs by making monetary donations is also practical. The book is particularly likely to interest people already active in environmental causes. (Oct.)Forecast:Given Goodall's reputation along with the 75,000 first printing, national advertising, a 15-city NPR tour along with lectures, initial sales are likely to be strong.