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Vet at the End of the Earth: Adventures with Animals in the South Atlantic
A vet's life with a difference: all creatures great and small in the diverse and distinctive South Atlantic islands.
The role of resident vet in the British Overseas Territories of the Falklands, St. Helena, Tristan da Cunha and Ascension encompasses the complexities of caring for the world's oldest land animal—a 200-year-old giant tortoise—and MoD mascots at the Falklands airbase; pursuing mystery creatures and invasive microorganisms; relocating herds of reindeer; and rescuing animals in extraordinarily rugged landscapes, from subtropical cloud forests to volcanic cliff faces.
Hugely entertaining and affectionate, Jonathan Hollins's tales of island vetting are not only full of ingenuity and astounding fauna—they are also steeped in the unique local cultures, history and peoples of the islands, far removed from the hustle of continental life. They are perfect for animal lovers, adventurers and armchair travellers alike.
Praise for Vet at the End of the Earth:
'Delightful, fascinating, entertaining, ideal for anyone with a passion for the natural world' —Dr Hilary Jones, MBE
'An amusing account of being a vet in the most remote settlements in the world... Hollins's bonhomie makes [for] an engaging read' —Financial Times
'Delightful. This warm-hearted book makes you full of admiration for Hollins's spirit of adventure, and for his commitment to the animals he cares for' —Daily Mail
'There is much to love, with each chapter a vignette of island life' —Daily Telegraph
'A brilliant read... fascinating, funny, and very moving' —Paul Ross, TALKSPORT
'Entertaining... Hollins writes with wit' —Daily Express
'A Great Veterinary Adventure set in the wilds of the South Atlantic—highly recommended!' —Gareth Steel, author of Never Work with Animals
'Charming descriptions of a life well led on the fringes; vividly told with compassion and humour' —Jonathan C. Slaght, author of Owls of the Eastern Ice
The role of resident vet in the British Overseas Territories of the Falklands, St. Helena, Tristan da Cunha and Ascension encompasses the complexities of caring for the world's oldest land animal—a 200-year-old giant tortoise—and MoD mascots at the Falklands airbase; pursuing mystery creatures and invasive microorganisms; relocating herds of reindeer; and rescuing animals in extraordinarily rugged landscapes, from subtropical cloud forests to volcanic cliff faces.
Hugely entertaining and affectionate, Jonathan Hollins's tales of island vetting are not only full of ingenuity and astounding fauna—they are also steeped in the unique local cultures, history and peoples of the islands, far removed from the hustle of continental life. They are perfect for animal lovers, adventurers and armchair travellers alike.
Praise for Vet at the End of the Earth:
'Delightful, fascinating, entertaining, ideal for anyone with a passion for the natural world' —Dr Hilary Jones, MBE
'An amusing account of being a vet in the most remote settlements in the world... Hollins's bonhomie makes [for] an engaging read' —Financial Times
'Delightful. This warm-hearted book makes you full of admiration for Hollins's spirit of adventure, and for his commitment to the animals he cares for' —Daily Mail
'There is much to love, with each chapter a vignette of island life' —Daily Telegraph
'A brilliant read... fascinating, funny, and very moving' —Paul Ross, TALKSPORT
'Entertaining... Hollins writes with wit' —Daily Express
'A Great Veterinary Adventure set in the wilds of the South Atlantic—highly recommended!' —Gareth Steel, author of Never Work with Animals
'Charming descriptions of a life well led on the fringes; vividly told with compassion and humour' —Jonathan C. Slaght, author of Owls of the Eastern Ice
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 5, 2023
9 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Hollins
3 booksOriginally from the south of England, Jonathan Hollins graduated from Emmanuel College, Cambridge, and he has been a working vet for four decades. Since the mid-2000s, he has spent long periods as a senior vet overseas in the South Atlantic. He has written for the British national press and presented documentary features for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 4. He lives on St. Helena.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 7, 2024
I received this book from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In this delightful book, vet Jonathan Hollins shares his experiences working on the Falkland Island as well as St Helena and Tristan da Cunha that make up the British Overseas Territory. From the people, the landscape and the hardy animals he encountered, I think Jonathan Hollins did a great job sharing just how special and life changing his experiences were for him.
It's very hard to pick up a book about a vet and not compare it to the Holy Grail that is James Herriot. While this doesn't have quite the story telling mastery that Herriot has, and contains more general knowledge that is geographical and historical in nature than animal focused, I think the heart and soul of the people Hollins lived and worked with was captured in the pages of this book, much like Herriot did for the Yorkshire Dales.
I personally would have liked some less general knowledge in the book and more interesting and quirky animal stories as one of the main reasons I picked up the book was the veterinary aspect, not the travel destination. I also thought that the grimmer stories involving lambs with jelly skeletons and a mass killing of chickens and ducks for example could have been interspersed with more heartwarming stories as at one point I started wondering if Hollins even liked animals as he spent so much time killing them!
I enjoyed this for the most part, and it gave me an appreciation and a curiosity about St Helena but most particularly Tristan Da Cunha (which sounds like a haven to my introvert soul to be quite honest).
In this delightful book, vet Jonathan Hollins shares his experiences working on the Falkland Island as well as St Helena and Tristan da Cunha that make up the British Overseas Territory. From the people, the landscape and the hardy animals he encountered, I think Jonathan Hollins did a great job sharing just how special and life changing his experiences were for him.
It's very hard to pick up a book about a vet and not compare it to the Holy Grail that is James Herriot. While this doesn't have quite the story telling mastery that Herriot has, and contains more general knowledge that is geographical and historical in nature than animal focused, I think the heart and soul of the people Hollins lived and worked with was captured in the pages of this book, much like Herriot did for the Yorkshire Dales.
I personally would have liked some less general knowledge in the book and more interesting and quirky animal stories as one of the main reasons I picked up the book was the veterinary aspect, not the travel destination. I also thought that the grimmer stories involving lambs with jelly skeletons and a mass killing of chickens and ducks for example could have been interspersed with more heartwarming stories as at one point I started wondering if Hollins even liked animals as he spent so much time killing them!
I enjoyed this for the most part, and it gave me an appreciation and a curiosity about St Helena but most particularly Tristan Da Cunha (which sounds like a haven to my introvert soul to be quite honest).
November 1, 2023
I read all the James Herriot books while growing up, and loved the TV series. Add the quirky characters and exotic locations of South Georgia, the Falklands, St Helena, Tristan da Cunha and Ascension islands, and you will get the picture. Being the government representative in charge of checking the sanitary presentation of massive factory fishing boats, and of stamping satisfactory marks on lamb carcasses, and of deworming all the resident dogs to prevent two-species hosted parasites, was only half the work.
Jonathan also had to neuter cats, trap feral cats, judge rat killing contests and rescue a lost dog from a cliff. He had to make all the tricky rare diagnoses while maintaining vigilance against introduced disease or parasites; sadly he dealt with two major avian diseases. He oversaw the importation of new bull, sheep and poultry blood.
And, most fun, he had to monitor, diagnose and treat the age-related illness of a giant tortoise.
Possibly only a Scot would have gone to the far cold volcanic islands and stayed the rest of his life. Given the fantastic views and birds in the photos, the fact of living on coffee plantations and among reindeer herds (imported), other people should maybe try the life.
I've enjoyed this book so much.
I read an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
Jonathan also had to neuter cats, trap feral cats, judge rat killing contests and rescue a lost dog from a cliff. He had to make all the tricky rare diagnoses while maintaining vigilance against introduced disease or parasites; sadly he dealt with two major avian diseases. He oversaw the importation of new bull, sheep and poultry blood.
And, most fun, he had to monitor, diagnose and treat the age-related illness of a giant tortoise.
Possibly only a Scot would have gone to the far cold volcanic islands and stayed the rest of his life. Given the fantastic views and birds in the photos, the fact of living on coffee plantations and among reindeer herds (imported), other people should maybe try the life.
I've enjoyed this book so much.
I read an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
September 16, 2023
I first 'discovered' Tristan Da Cunha when I was in primary school. It was being evacuated because of its erupting volcano. The tiny island, thousands of miles from anywhere else, caught my imagination, as did the fate of the residents. Sixty years on, I get to visit it and the equally legendary (to my mind) St Helena, Ascension and Falkland Islands, courtesy of vet Joe Hollins.
For anyone who enjoys animals, whether pets, wild or livestock, this book is a treasure. The author's experiences cover an enormous range of events, from midwifery to biohazards. But behind the animal tales are the people of the islands, each very distinctive species in themselves. I began to wonder whether I could cope in the isolation of these places. Of course, they are thriving communities, even though they are small. Everyone works exceptionally hard, with and for each other, as often as not.
The author proves once again that a science background is no barrier to writing wonderful description, and keeping the reader on the edge of the seat. It is both nerve-wracking and uplifting, and I absolutely loved it. Armchair travel at its best!
For anyone who enjoys animals, whether pets, wild or livestock, this book is a treasure. The author's experiences cover an enormous range of events, from midwifery to biohazards. But behind the animal tales are the people of the islands, each very distinctive species in themselves. I began to wonder whether I could cope in the isolation of these places. Of course, they are thriving communities, even though they are small. Everyone works exceptionally hard, with and for each other, as often as not.
The author proves once again that a science background is no barrier to writing wonderful description, and keeping the reader on the edge of the seat. It is both nerve-wracking and uplifting, and I absolutely loved it. Armchair travel at its best!
January 20, 2024
(Audiobook). I *so* enjoyed listening to this - it’s like a James Herriot but better in my opinion. Not only do you hear about his various exploits with the animals he looks after (and they’re a much more interesting set of animals than you get in Herriot), but also learn stacks about the geography, history and culture of the islands he’s based on (Falkland, St Helena, Tristan de Cunha). Fascinating guy and quality book. Loved the audiobook read by him too - felt like I knew him by the end.
October 9, 2023
*I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to the author, Duckworth Books and Anne Cater of Random Things Blog Tours. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
It was a no-brainer for me to pick up a copy of this book, as I was an obsessive reader of animal-related memoirs from the age of about 7 upwards, devouring Gerald Durrell and James Herriot alongside more child-appropriate animal authors like Colin Dann and Virginia Vail.
And if you are anything like me in that respect, then you will love this book too – stories and reminiscences from the life of a vet in the British Overseas Territories of the South Atlantic (including the Falklands, and the islands of Tristan da Cunha, Ascension and St Helena).
Jonathan Hollins’ love of animals shines through in his stories here, but also his love of knowledge – as he takes us into medical and microbiological details and discusses ecological issues faced in the region – and his deep, abiding respect and admiration for the geography, culture and people of the islands he works on. The animals he cares for are (mostly) not fluffy family pets, but either working animals, livestock or wildlife, and so his stories tend less towards humorous shenanigans and more towards the thoughtful and insightful, but he still brings warmth and humour to his writing to leaven some of the more serious topics (biohazards, pandemics and similar).
Between these pages you will find tortoises, chickens, reindeer, sheep, fish, dogs, cats and microorganisms, all under the scope of the author’s work to maintain and improve the ecology of the islands, carefully balancing the native species with fresh genetic material, reducing invasive non-native species impact and eradicating dangerous bacteria or viral strains that threaten the animal (and human) populations.
This book is an informative and entertaining read for animal lovers, but also for anyone interested in the life of an island vet, or in the wider culture, history and geography of the islands of the South Atlantic.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
It was a no-brainer for me to pick up a copy of this book, as I was an obsessive reader of animal-related memoirs from the age of about 7 upwards, devouring Gerald Durrell and James Herriot alongside more child-appropriate animal authors like Colin Dann and Virginia Vail.
And if you are anything like me in that respect, then you will love this book too – stories and reminiscences from the life of a vet in the British Overseas Territories of the South Atlantic (including the Falklands, and the islands of Tristan da Cunha, Ascension and St Helena).
Jonathan Hollins’ love of animals shines through in his stories here, but also his love of knowledge – as he takes us into medical and microbiological details and discusses ecological issues faced in the region – and his deep, abiding respect and admiration for the geography, culture and people of the islands he works on. The animals he cares for are (mostly) not fluffy family pets, but either working animals, livestock or wildlife, and so his stories tend less towards humorous shenanigans and more towards the thoughtful and insightful, but he still brings warmth and humour to his writing to leaven some of the more serious topics (biohazards, pandemics and similar).
Between these pages you will find tortoises, chickens, reindeer, sheep, fish, dogs, cats and microorganisms, all under the scope of the author’s work to maintain and improve the ecology of the islands, carefully balancing the native species with fresh genetic material, reducing invasive non-native species impact and eradicating dangerous bacteria or viral strains that threaten the animal (and human) populations.
This book is an informative and entertaining read for animal lovers, but also for anyone interested in the life of an island vet, or in the wider culture, history and geography of the islands of the South Atlantic.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
January 6, 2024
Had to read this quickly as I had picked it off my partner's book club pile which was due for passing on -- that was no problem as I couldn't put it down! It is a vet's account of his adventures in the South Atlantic -- filling us in with everything we might have wondered about places we have all heard of but are never likely to visit -- The Falkland Isles, Tristan da Cunha and St Helena. It is very instructive about the unique problems, veterinary and human, of isolated island living and the community advantages and is immensely entertaining. The descriptions of the landscape are vivid and memorable and his vet practice fascinating and varied, from shaping government policy and applying bio-security and enforcing meat and fish industry regulations to castrating cats and heroically rescuing a lost dog. He doesn't avoid the less palatable aspects of life, like culling invasive species and living with the legacies of slavery, but puts them into context. A very good book, certainly my book of the year! -- Note to publisher -- loved the illustrations but please add maps of the individual island groups to next edition and better photos -- I'm sure there will be many more editions!
October 8, 2025
Charming book
October 8, 2023
From measuring tails of rats in the most isolated stretch of land on Planet Earth to tending to a gigantic 191-year-old turtle, Jonathan Hollins in his primary capacity of senior veterinary officer has seen and done it all, or most of them anyway, when it comes to animal welfare, protection, and preservation. Toiling away on St Helena, an isolated island in the South Atlantic, Hollins found himself in the most unexpected of places where he was demanded to perform the most unexpected of medical procedures. However, many of his experiences can only be termed life-affirming as Hollins himself alludes to in compellingly splendid fashion in his extremely readable memoir, Vet At The End of The Earth.
Hollins plied his wares in the British Overseas Territories of the South Atlantic. His eclectic stints encompassed 18 months in the Falkland Islands, more than a decade in St Helena, yes, the very island where Napolean was banished to, and 11 extremely interesting months at Tristan da Cunha, the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, situated approximately 2,787 kilometres from Cape Town and 2,437 kilometres from Saint Helena.
Hollins, after completing his veterinary Science at Cambridge University in 1984, found himself practicing at Bainbridge & Butt Veterinary Surgeons in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. Following a brief and uneventful stint at Cape Town and Harare, Hollins slogged away for 16 years in the UK combating foot-and-mouth disease. In 2004 a vet on Falkland Islands decided to take a vacation and suggested Hollins as her back up. Hollins was so taken up by the island, the populace, and its animals that he subsequently went on to become St Helena’s first permanent vet.
The job was putting it mildly, unconventional. The Island situated at the periphery of civilization came with its own challenges and scarcities. However, a mutuality of trust and reciprocity, combined with an unvarnished love for animals, made Hollin’s work an absolute pleasure. The vagaries of circumstances could on a trying day, find the vet trying to lure a famished cow away from the deadly precipice of a hill by laying out a trail of peeled potato skins, while a totally different and pleasurable sunny day would place him atop the house of his landlord assisting in laying a new roof.
When a fowl cholera pandemic gripped the island causing ducks to double up, go rigid and drop down dead, Hollin’s found his medical and logical skills stretched to the maximum. An unfortunate combination of inevitable culling and a complete lockdown proved to be the cure for the spontaneous carnage. Hollin’s account is punctuated with carefully placed doses of wicked humour. A Chapter bearing the title of “Monkat”, described strange sightings of a furry animal which to all intents and purposes seems to be an inexplicable cross between a monkey and a cat. Traps, public awareness warnings and surveillance later, the Monkat eludes the tracking endeavours of Hollins and remains a chimera.
Learning to sheep shear, summiting an extinct volcano, and swimming in a lake formed within a crater, when not crisscrossing the islands in an Islander aircraft which narrowly misses getting waylaid by a sudden and mischievous swarm of ascending geese, Hollins experiences are myriad, magical, and mesmerizing. The reader is in lockstep with Hollins as he recounts all his wonderfully diverse involvements with panache, flair, and candour.
The bonding between man and beast is encapsulated in a most compassionate and studied manner by Hollins. This book may well serve to be the inspirational beacon that lures more intrepid students of medicine to choose the field of veterinary science. An added element of inspiration would be to serve in places where even today there is a perceivable lack of infrastructure, but absolutely no dearth of love!
Vet at the end of the Earth – essential, pleasing, and enduring!
Hollins plied his wares in the British Overseas Territories of the South Atlantic. His eclectic stints encompassed 18 months in the Falkland Islands, more than a decade in St Helena, yes, the very island where Napolean was banished to, and 11 extremely interesting months at Tristan da Cunha, the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, situated approximately 2,787 kilometres from Cape Town and 2,437 kilometres from Saint Helena.
Hollins, after completing his veterinary Science at Cambridge University in 1984, found himself practicing at Bainbridge & Butt Veterinary Surgeons in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. Following a brief and uneventful stint at Cape Town and Harare, Hollins slogged away for 16 years in the UK combating foot-and-mouth disease. In 2004 a vet on Falkland Islands decided to take a vacation and suggested Hollins as her back up. Hollins was so taken up by the island, the populace, and its animals that he subsequently went on to become St Helena’s first permanent vet.
The job was putting it mildly, unconventional. The Island situated at the periphery of civilization came with its own challenges and scarcities. However, a mutuality of trust and reciprocity, combined with an unvarnished love for animals, made Hollin’s work an absolute pleasure. The vagaries of circumstances could on a trying day, find the vet trying to lure a famished cow away from the deadly precipice of a hill by laying out a trail of peeled potato skins, while a totally different and pleasurable sunny day would place him atop the house of his landlord assisting in laying a new roof.
When a fowl cholera pandemic gripped the island causing ducks to double up, go rigid and drop down dead, Hollin’s found his medical and logical skills stretched to the maximum. An unfortunate combination of inevitable culling and a complete lockdown proved to be the cure for the spontaneous carnage. Hollin’s account is punctuated with carefully placed doses of wicked humour. A Chapter bearing the title of “Monkat”, described strange sightings of a furry animal which to all intents and purposes seems to be an inexplicable cross between a monkey and a cat. Traps, public awareness warnings and surveillance later, the Monkat eludes the tracking endeavours of Hollins and remains a chimera.
Learning to sheep shear, summiting an extinct volcano, and swimming in a lake formed within a crater, when not crisscrossing the islands in an Islander aircraft which narrowly misses getting waylaid by a sudden and mischievous swarm of ascending geese, Hollins experiences are myriad, magical, and mesmerizing. The reader is in lockstep with Hollins as he recounts all his wonderfully diverse involvements with panache, flair, and candour.
The bonding between man and beast is encapsulated in a most compassionate and studied manner by Hollins. This book may well serve to be the inspirational beacon that lures more intrepid students of medicine to choose the field of veterinary science. An added element of inspiration would be to serve in places where even today there is a perceivable lack of infrastructure, but absolutely no dearth of love!
Vet at the end of the Earth – essential, pleasing, and enduring!
October 19, 2023
Jonathan Hollins has written a brilliant book - serious, funny and totally informative.. His years have been spent working as the senior, and usually the only, vet covering the British Overseas Atlantic Territories from St Helena, then to the Falklands , Tristan da Cunha and finally back to St Helena.
The reader starts by being introduced to the most famous resident on St Helena -Jonathan the 150+ year old tortoise, resident in the gardens of the island’s Governor - an immense responsibility that caused him a few heart-stopping moments! He soon finds himself totally immersed in the life of the families resident on St Helena together with their interesting collection of animals.
He returned to the Falklands, having previously spent a month there as locum vet, This time he is charged with worming every dog on the island, as they are having massive problems with an extremely invasive tape worm. Whilst the tape worm can infect humans and other animals their working dogs are more susceptible and are precious working members of the population - too valuable to lose. During his lengthy stay he visits every part of the Islands and immerses the reader in the life of Falklanders. Some of the antics leave the reader roaring with laughter and at other times virtually reduced to tears.
His vivid descriptions of life on all of the islands is fantastic - he has written a book that should be on everyone’s Christmas list.
The reader starts by being introduced to the most famous resident on St Helena -Jonathan the 150+ year old tortoise, resident in the gardens of the island’s Governor - an immense responsibility that caused him a few heart-stopping moments! He soon finds himself totally immersed in the life of the families resident on St Helena together with their interesting collection of animals.
He returned to the Falklands, having previously spent a month there as locum vet, This time he is charged with worming every dog on the island, as they are having massive problems with an extremely invasive tape worm. Whilst the tape worm can infect humans and other animals their working dogs are more susceptible and are precious working members of the population - too valuable to lose. During his lengthy stay he visits every part of the Islands and immerses the reader in the life of Falklanders. Some of the antics leave the reader roaring with laughter and at other times virtually reduced to tears.
His vivid descriptions of life on all of the islands is fantastic - he has written a book that should be on everyone’s Christmas list.
October 7, 2023
The writer is a vet with a difference. He became the resident vet in the faraway lands of Falkland Islands, St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. Describing his adventures on the various islands we find him handling and dealing with creatures as diverse as 200 year old giant tortoise, sheep, sheep dogs and even reindeer! Yes there are reindeer on the Falklands despite it been nowhere near their normal habitat.
I chose to read this because I have visited the Falkland Islands and I was interested to find out more about it. However, I was also quite wary as I am easily triggered by anything involving animals; apart from a couple of small sections I had to skim over this wasn’t over triggering for me. We read about him as he ministers to and when necessary gently puts animals to sleep whilst trying to work out why certain creatures seem to be adversely affected by their environment. History, geography, biology, conservation all in one book and written in an easy read way with humour and candour.
I loved all the information about the people of the islands and their cultures. There were sad bits but also a lot of happy and heartwarming bits. It is an extraordinary tale of adventure and brotherhood amongst the islanders and well worth a read for any animal lover but also anyone who is fascinated by our natural world.
I chose to read this because I have visited the Falkland Islands and I was interested to find out more about it. However, I was also quite wary as I am easily triggered by anything involving animals; apart from a couple of small sections I had to skim over this wasn’t over triggering for me. We read about him as he ministers to and when necessary gently puts animals to sleep whilst trying to work out why certain creatures seem to be adversely affected by their environment. History, geography, biology, conservation all in one book and written in an easy read way with humour and candour.
I loved all the information about the people of the islands and their cultures. There were sad bits but also a lot of happy and heartwarming bits. It is an extraordinary tale of adventure and brotherhood amongst the islanders and well worth a read for any animal lover but also anyone who is fascinated by our natural world.
October 21, 2023
This is a book for all those animal lovers out there who enjoy finding out facts as well as reading a good narrative about the life of a vet, and the interesting encounters he has " At the End of the Earth !!!!!!!"
I learnt some interesting facts an terminology that I hadn't come across before, especially about turtles whilst reading this well written book and could fully understand why he enjoyed his time out there. The narrative is also supported by some wonderful photographs, including some of the animals that Jonathan tells the stories about. I also really enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of the chapters from explorers and poets as , for me, they added another learning dimension to the book.
Owing to the way the book is written you can really immerse yourself into Jonathan's adventures and feel as though you come to know the different people with their quirks and personalities.
Like many vet books this is also one that shows that when it comes to working with animals there are no rules, you just get on and do what needs to be done in whatever way possible.
An entertaining, easy to read narrative that will have you laughing at times and reading with wonder at others.
I learnt some interesting facts an terminology that I hadn't come across before, especially about turtles whilst reading this well written book and could fully understand why he enjoyed his time out there. The narrative is also supported by some wonderful photographs, including some of the animals that Jonathan tells the stories about. I also really enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of the chapters from explorers and poets as , for me, they added another learning dimension to the book.
Owing to the way the book is written you can really immerse yourself into Jonathan's adventures and feel as though you come to know the different people with their quirks and personalities.
Like many vet books this is also one that shows that when it comes to working with animals there are no rules, you just get on and do what needs to be done in whatever way possible.
An entertaining, easy to read narrative that will have you laughing at times and reading with wonder at others.
January 21, 2024
I have a significant interest in wilderness medicine and veterinary medicine. Oh, and the ocean and unconventional travel, having once spent four months on a ship circumnavigating the globe.
Vet at the End of the Earth is like the love-child of It Shouldn't Happen to a Vet and A Wilder Life: Journey of an Adventuring Doctor. A travelogue, a memoir, and an absolutely gripping account of veterinary medicine in the most remote inhabited island in the world: Tristan da Cunha. (Hollins did also work in the Falklands and St Helena, writing equally beautifully about his work there.)
Hollins writes with intelligence and wit, and thanks to him, I’ve added Tristan de Cunha to my bucket list. I hope this book gets all the accolades it deserves!
Thank you to Duckworth Books and Netgalley for providing an eARC.
Vet at the End of the Earth is like the love-child of It Shouldn't Happen to a Vet and A Wilder Life: Journey of an Adventuring Doctor. A travelogue, a memoir, and an absolutely gripping account of veterinary medicine in the most remote inhabited island in the world: Tristan da Cunha. (Hollins did also work in the Falklands and St Helena, writing equally beautifully about his work there.)
Hollins writes with intelligence and wit, and thanks to him, I’ve added Tristan de Cunha to my bucket list. I hope this book gets all the accolades it deserves!
Thank you to Duckworth Books and Netgalley for providing an eARC.
February 12, 2025
I've read a number of vet autobiographies but this one certainly has the most unusual and remote location - Hollins spent many years as a vet in the Falkland Islands, St Helena and Tristan da Cunha, and this is his story of those years.
Don't expect a 'James Herriot with added penguins' type book. Life in these islands can be tough, and while islanders obviously have an affection for their animals, there is far less sentimentality than you would find in the average UK pet owner. Hollins' tales focus less on cute accounts of fluffy kittens and puppies and more on the hazards of maintaining biosecurity and dealing with disease outbreaks in livestock and wildlife.
He also includes a fair amount of information about the history, topography and culture of the islands he is working on. Some people may feel that this detracts from the 'vet stories', but I felt that it gave me a better understanding of the places in which he was working and enhanced my enjoyment of the book. I'm not sure if this is an animal book with added travel, or a travel book with added animals, but either way, it's a good read - both educational and entertaining.
Don't expect a 'James Herriot with added penguins' type book. Life in these islands can be tough, and while islanders obviously have an affection for their animals, there is far less sentimentality than you would find in the average UK pet owner. Hollins' tales focus less on cute accounts of fluffy kittens and puppies and more on the hazards of maintaining biosecurity and dealing with disease outbreaks in livestock and wildlife.
He also includes a fair amount of information about the history, topography and culture of the islands he is working on. Some people may feel that this detracts from the 'vet stories', but I felt that it gave me a better understanding of the places in which he was working and enhanced my enjoyment of the book. I'm not sure if this is an animal book with added travel, or a travel book with added animals, but either way, it's a good read - both educational and entertaining.
October 10, 2023
This was a cracking read. The author has had such an interesting life. The book concerns his work as a vet in the Falklands, St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha islands, and absolutely inspired me to want to visit them.
The cases are all so varied, and described so clearly (but with no unnecessary stomach-turning graphics) that it makes for a really interesting read. From giant turtles to lost dogs, as well as some hairy and unusual ways to transfer from ship to shore, it is well outside my scope of experience and really opened my eyes to island life in the South Atlantic. He explains some of the local customs and practices, as well as painting a glorious picture of the scenery and the difficulties of their island lives, plus the close knit communities who stand by each other. And he does so in an interesting manner without preaching or lecturing the reader.
Brilliant! Thank you to NetGalley and Duckworth Books for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The cases are all so varied, and described so clearly (but with no unnecessary stomach-turning graphics) that it makes for a really interesting read. From giant turtles to lost dogs, as well as some hairy and unusual ways to transfer from ship to shore, it is well outside my scope of experience and really opened my eyes to island life in the South Atlantic. He explains some of the local customs and practices, as well as painting a glorious picture of the scenery and the difficulties of their island lives, plus the close knit communities who stand by each other. And he does so in an interesting manner without preaching or lecturing the reader.
Brilliant! Thank you to NetGalley and Duckworth Books for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2023
A Vet’s Life, but with a difference! As resident vet in the British Overseas Territories, it is fair to say it is no ordinary job covering the Falklands, St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. Jonathan Hollins’s tales range from caring for 190-year-old Jonathan the giant tortoise; pursuing invasive microorganisms; relocating herds of reindeer; and rescuing animals in extraordinary and rugged landscapes.
This book is about so much more than being a vet. This is a fascinating insight into remote island life, geography, conservation, biosecurity, history and so much more.
This book is so full of warmth, wit and love for the people and animals of the islands. This book deserves all the plaudits. I learned something new on every page. I couldn’t put this book down. I loved it! This has got to be a contender for my book of the year.
Thank you to Duckworth Books and Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about so much more than being a vet. This is a fascinating insight into remote island life, geography, conservation, biosecurity, history and so much more.
This book is so full of warmth, wit and love for the people and animals of the islands. This book deserves all the plaudits. I learned something new on every page. I couldn’t put this book down. I loved it! This has got to be a contender for my book of the year.
Thank you to Duckworth Books and Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2023
This is such a unique and beautiful read. Honestly, I was so interested, as soon as I read the blurb. How exciting to get the opportunity to see into the life of a vet who is involved in caring for such beautiful, majestic and rare creatures. Then I started reading and I was so taken by the stories that were being told. There was such beauty and honesty in the way the author portrayed the work that was done and the adventures they had.
I really liked having the opportunity to feel almost as if we were there, as if we were right by the animals ourselves. The writing was done so well that it all felt real and in the moment. It was descriptive, honest and very exciting.
It was also brilliant to have in depth knowledge of the hows and whys of why certain things were being done and why they were being done that way. Overall, this was such a detailed and wonderful book to have the pleasure of enjoying and I know many more readers will love the journey it takes you through.
I really liked having the opportunity to feel almost as if we were there, as if we were right by the animals ourselves. The writing was done so well that it all felt real and in the moment. It was descriptive, honest and very exciting.
It was also brilliant to have in depth knowledge of the hows and whys of why certain things were being done and why they were being done that way. Overall, this was such a detailed and wonderful book to have the pleasure of enjoying and I know many more readers will love the journey it takes you through.
December 23, 2023
A reluctant 3 star rating on this one. There were certainly some interesting stories being told but if you are expecting James Herriot meets exotic animals you will be disappointed. There is none of the charm of James Herriot’s characters or storytelling and while there is mention of penguins and tortoises, it is primarily sheep, goats, chickens and rats’ tails of all things!
Personally it was the writing I found difficult to get to grips with. Overly descriptive and meandering to the extent that I lost track of what actually was happening and got no real sense of the landscape. It reminded me of students in school with the thesaurus out to find an alternative word just for the sake of it. And when explanation was required, if you didn’t have a medical degree, it was lacking.
A struggle to finish but thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for this honest review.
Personally it was the writing I found difficult to get to grips with. Overly descriptive and meandering to the extent that I lost track of what actually was happening and got no real sense of the landscape. It reminded me of students in school with the thesaurus out to find an alternative word just for the sake of it. And when explanation was required, if you didn’t have a medical degree, it was lacking.
A struggle to finish but thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for this honest review.
January 15, 2024
Just under a 4.5*
This book was a gift and not one had been on my radar, though I tend to enjoy non-fiction books about animals. This one was a very pleasant surprise and I found myself looking forward to listening to this book quite a bit.
We follow the author, who also narrates the audio book, as his veterinary career takes him to various farflung islands; the Falklands, St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha… I really enjoyed the way he casually described the life and the people on these islands and how his veterinary practices were dependent on what was available. It definitely made it a really interesting read.
The book touches on caring for livestock on the islands as well as on Jonathan, the almost 200 year old tortoise that has its home on St Helena.
This was a wonderful listen and though it will obviously only appeal to people who enjoy stories about animals and heroic vets, I would definitely recommend it.
It was just what I needed to lift my spirits.
This book was a gift and not one had been on my radar, though I tend to enjoy non-fiction books about animals. This one was a very pleasant surprise and I found myself looking forward to listening to this book quite a bit.
We follow the author, who also narrates the audio book, as his veterinary career takes him to various farflung islands; the Falklands, St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha… I really enjoyed the way he casually described the life and the people on these islands and how his veterinary practices were dependent on what was available. It definitely made it a really interesting read.
The book touches on caring for livestock on the islands as well as on Jonathan, the almost 200 year old tortoise that has its home on St Helena.
This was a wonderful listen and though it will obviously only appeal to people who enjoy stories about animals and heroic vets, I would definitely recommend it.
It was just what I needed to lift my spirits.
October 1, 2023
What a charming book! Our first meeting of Joe Hollins is a phone call telling him that one of the giant tortoises on St Helena is dead. From there he takes us back to how he came to be working in mid Atlantic remote places. He takes us from the Falkland Islands to St Helena with Ascension Island and Tristan de Cunha thrown in. Both funny and sad, he takes us through some of the more unusual cases that have come his way, from sheep and cows to fish parasites. The book is very readable and well written, there is a lot of non-vet info about the places, but put so that it doesn't feel like a geography or history lesson. I was laughing out loud in places and feeling equally sad in others.
July 10, 2025
As a veterinarian, I found this book incredibly inspiring. It truly captures the passion behind the profession, highlighting not only the hardships and emotional moments but also the many rewarding and fulfilling experiences that come with caring for animals.
I did notice a minor error regarding Echinococcus granulosus. In the book, the life cycle is explained with sheep as the definitive host and dogs as intermediaries. However, it's actually the opposite: canids (such as dogs) are the definitive hosts, where the adult parasites live in the intestines and reproduce, while sheep serve as the intermediate hosts.
Despite this small mistake, I would wholeheartedly recommend the book. It’s a moving read, and now I find myself wishing to one day visit those islands myself.
I did notice a minor error regarding Echinococcus granulosus. In the book, the life cycle is explained with sheep as the definitive host and dogs as intermediaries. However, it's actually the opposite: canids (such as dogs) are the definitive hosts, where the adult parasites live in the intestines and reproduce, while sheep serve as the intermediate hosts.
Despite this small mistake, I would wholeheartedly recommend the book. It’s a moving read, and now I find myself wishing to one day visit those islands myself.
October 16, 2023
What a great read! I found Hollins' story to be absolutely fascinating and a great insight to the life of a vet, who is literally at the end of the earth in the British Overseas Territories of the Falklands, St Helena, Tristan da Cunha and Ascension.
It gives valuable lessons in the history of the Overseas Territories and the animals that live there. And an insight into the local communities and their lives.
The star of the show for me was Jonathan, the two centuries old giant tortoise who was partial to a spot of sunbathing.
TVATEOTE is an interesting, enjoyable read. It does have it's emotional moments, but overall is an absolute delight to read.
It gives valuable lessons in the history of the Overseas Territories and the animals that live there. And an insight into the local communities and their lives.
The star of the show for me was Jonathan, the two centuries old giant tortoise who was partial to a spot of sunbathing.
TVATEOTE is an interesting, enjoyable read. It does have it's emotional moments, but overall is an absolute delight to read.
June 15, 2025
Do you like nonfiction tales about animals or far off lands? I typically do and I really wanted to like this one. But, the writing was the obstacle for me with this book.
Jonathan Hollins spent the end of his career tending to animals on some of the remotest islands in the world.
He served as a vet on the islands of Tristan Da Cunha and St. Helena. Primarily, he managed the care of sheep and cows but he also tended to a giant Seychelles giant tortoise.
The tales of the people, their generosity, life on an island, and the extraordinary challenge of veterinary medicine on these islands was interesting. However, I struggled with his writing style and the abundant detail on ship construction, veterinary tools, and other non animal concerns. These descriptions made the book feel like it was plodding for me.
Jonathan Hollins spent the end of his career tending to animals on some of the remotest islands in the world.
He served as a vet on the islands of Tristan Da Cunha and St. Helena. Primarily, he managed the care of sheep and cows but he also tended to a giant Seychelles giant tortoise.
The tales of the people, their generosity, life on an island, and the extraordinary challenge of veterinary medicine on these islands was interesting. However, I struggled with his writing style and the abundant detail on ship construction, veterinary tools, and other non animal concerns. These descriptions made the book feel like it was plodding for me.
January 4, 2025
This book is one of a kind and a fun, thought-provoking read. A veterinarian practicing on some of the world's most remote islands, Joe has to rely on his resourcefulness to provide the care and dignity that the local animals deserve. I also learned a lot about the culture, history and natural history of the South Atlantic islands, and just how the small communities who live there survive and thrive. Fascinating in every way!
October 11, 2023
Vet tales in the South Atlantic. Jonathon tells a good tale, Interweaving island lore, geography and history around various animal cases. Like James Herriot before him, you can picture the setting and the people of the Falklands, St Helena and othe S Atlantic islands. Thoroughly entertaining. Recommend.
January 27, 2024
This is an utterly fascinating book. Being a vet on the Falkland Islands, Tristan de Cunha and St Helena, the most isolated islands in the world ….makes for some incredible stories and inspiring investigative veterinary work.
His descriptions of the scenery, the environment and the people has made me want to go there !
His descriptions of the scenery, the environment and the people has made me want to go there !
September 4, 2023
This is a book that will be loved by animal lovers and whoever loves books written by vet.
Differnt type of animals, funny and heartbreaking moments, stories that keep you hooked.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Differnt type of animals, funny and heartbreaking moments, stories that keep you hooked.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
October 20, 2023
Set in the South Atlantic, the book follows Jonathan as a vet, dealing with a myriad of different cases and also some of his personal encounters.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book, some of the veterinary terms didn't mean anything to me but did not detract from the enjoyment.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book, some of the veterinary terms didn't mean anything to me but did not detract from the enjoyment.
February 8, 2024
Although very interesting in it’s own right, with intriguing facts about some of the most hardy islanders on the planet, there was a tad too much Maritime focus on engineering and such , rather than the animal inhabitants.
No James Herriot I am afraid
No James Herriot I am afraid
June 7, 2025
Not what I expectec
Although the islands he was stationed on sounded interesting I found the book to be more travelogue than vet. He spent a lot of time talking about some of the cultural aspects.
Although the islands he was stationed on sounded interesting I found the book to be more travelogue than vet. He spent a lot of time talking about some of the cultural aspects.
January 29, 2024
Lovely book. The kind of book that somehow makes you warm
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