Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Book Review – Wild In The Backyard, Arefa Tehsin

Wild in the Backyard, Arefa Tehsin (Image Source - https://arefatehsin.com/2016/01/08/my-new-book-wild-in-the-backyard-released/)
Wondering what should you gift your pre-teen kid for this birthday? Buy them this book. Even otherwise, you can give this book to them as a casual gift. In fact, not just your kids, but to your nieces, nephews and the kids in your neighbourhood as well, in case you still happen to have such an affectionate bond of old days with your neighbours. Even if there are no kids at your home (or your neighbourhood), just gift yourself with this book. You will not regret it.

The author Arefa Tehsin is said to be an enthusiastic naturalist since her childhood days and it reflects clearly in this work. Once you start reading this book you will understand why. A lovely book about all those critters that pervade our homes and gardens. Ants, bees, frogs, birds, squirrels, snails, centipedes, millipedes, rats and mice and lizards and mosquitoes and monkeys and…have you ever cared to stop and look at them attentively as they cross your path – or as YOU cross THEIR path? This book will make you stop and notice them like never before.

The author shares many facts about hitherto uncared for creatures in our lives in a funny – at times crossing the lines of politeness and decency though not in a serious way - yet professional manner. The book is written as if addressing a school-kid, but who says that grown-ups cannot read children’s books? In fact, this is a book that contains facts that even we grown-ups have not learnt or known till date.

While telling us about the little bugs, birds, rodents and insects that live with us in our homes and backyards, the author has subtly stressed on the need to preserve nature as well. Her care for all the life forms is quite evident. When you finish reading this book, her love, concern and enthusiasm for the ecosystem are bound to infect you for certain – without even any of those critters biting you!

If you are a parent, I would recommend that you read this book sitting with your kid. This is a way to instill in those young minds the love for nature and empathy for our fellow occupants of this beautiful planet.

An interesting read indeed!

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