The Eastern Regional Library Show

Library staff members Lesley Conway and Pia Butcher run a radio show each Wednesday 12:05pm-12:45pm on Eastern FM 98.1 called The Eastern Regional Library Show. Tune in next Wednesday for a great show.

On Wednesday's show

People who love the natural world, who don't mind spiders in their hair, camels breathing down their neck, or wading up to their armpits in mud to find a rare and elusive frog, are a special breed. And if they can write well, or enthuse you with their passions through a TV show they are doubly special.

Many of us are familiar with the life of the veterinarian through James Herriot's books, and with the world of wild animals through David Attenborough's documentaries. ERL libraries hold both books and TV programs on DVD of both these respected men. But did you know that many other vets have written about their experiences in as lively a manner as James Herriot? David Grant is an English vet who seems to have more in common with Seigfried Farnon than James, but with the same ability to bring his working life vividly before you. An American working with horses in Kentucky, Grant Kendall, also has the knack of telling a humourous and endearing story. Other writing vets are David Perrin, Oliver Jones, Joe Inglis, Harry Cooper, Tony Sheldon, David Taylor and Hugh Lasgran.

If you want to indulge in a hearty laugh at the extraordinary experiences of naturalists, you can't go past Gerald Durrell. I have just finished The Corfu Trilogy which describes the five years his family spent on the island of Corfu which began with My family and other animals. From stories of a hungry gull under the dinner table nipping the guests knees to idyllic picnics on remote beaches at sunset, the writing of Gerald Durrell is a delight. The memoirs of David Bellamy, Jolly Green Giant are not quite as laugh aloud, but equally informative, well written and full of warmth.

David Suzuki is another environmentalist who should need no introduction, as his books and TV programs have won many awards. For a more personal, and again warm and humourous insight, his David Suzuki : the autobiography is a great read. Finally, for a very poetic and illuminating read, try Build me an Ark : a life with animals by Brenda Peterson. She has watched grizzlies in the Rocky Mountains, worked for the restoration of wild wolves, studied dolphins, whales and orcas, and believes humankind cannot live without animals.

---- Lesley

I love reading autobiographies of Naturalists, Vets and Zookeepers - they have the wildest tales (no pun intended....well maybe a little). My interest in these books started as a teenager while reading My Family and Other Animals and as I wanted to study Zoology it was natural. In addition to the wonderful authors listed (I may just have to take note of a few new ones) may I add Desmond Morris, author of The Naked Ape.

I did end up with a degree in Zoology and still love wildlife stories and documentaries.

Cheers, Maryanne