Wild Thing: Finding hope and a home in the natural world

by PLUNKETT RANDAL

'Randal's voice dares to diverge in a world built on conformity and tradition. I genuinely revelled in every moment. This book is raw, heartfelt, brave and just utterly alive' - Seán Ronayne, author of Nature Boy

At the age of 28, Randal Plunkett inherited the title of Baron Dunsany, alongside Dunsany Castle and the 1,600-acre estate and found himself at a crossroads. A reluctant aristocrat, he now lets nature run wild on grounds his ancestors farmed for centuries.

What Randal had was a vision of Dunsany given back to nature. A memoir-with-a-message, Wild Thing showcases how this poisoned chalice - a cold, leaky, needy castle, with all the responsibilities to the generations before - inspired a personal journey toward fulfilment, a vital mission toward a better, more sustainable, future, and a call to arms for the environment, and the people who live in it.

Genres: Nonfiction

270 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 9, 2025

Reviews

[Hugh Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book - the first half about his personal life is even more interesting than the re-wilding part, his youth in New York (friends of the elite like Ivanka Trump) & schooling in England, Ireland & Switzerland - he wasn't academically inclined & struggled in all schools. Then the family moved to Dunsany castle when his grandfather was dieing, and much to his embarrassment his mother starts trying to fix him up with suitable (& wealthy!) local young ladies, who might help them with the costs of running the castle.
And then the re-wilding story is so uplifting - from his brave conflicts with the local hunting groups who he refused allow in his estate, to his decision to ignore all sane advice and just let the land do its thing. As he says, everyone can help with biodiversity - if you've no space/garden, there's always a window sill for a plant box

[Simon Leadbeater · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just finished this book; it’s a truly heart warming story and the best account of rewilding I have come across. Lord Dunsany weaves his own personal story with that of his estate, journeying from being a despondent directionless young man resenting his heritage to discovering his true mission in life and finding redemption in rewilding his land. I spilled tears of joy reading Dunsany’s story, but finished feeling a great sense of outrage determined that I must help in some way. Why? Buy this book and find out.

I had the privilege of visiting Dunsany in September. Full kudus to Randal Plunkett for writing such an enthralling, masterful book, and thank you for your courage in setting about doing something so innovative and brave. A veritable Lord of and for the wild…

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a love story in two parts, told from the heart. The first part tells the story of how Randal reluctantly came to be custodian of the Dunsany. With some ‘wild’ anecdotes that will surprise many, Randal shares his journey towards acceptance of the Dunsany title, castle, and land. The second part details how he gradually embraced it and began to make his mark. To end, Randal reminds us that you don’t need 700 acres of land to do your bit; all you need is a windowsill and a plant pot. 🌱

[Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book, read in one sitting. As a memoir of his life it describes his youth and society he grew up in and his independent spirit. His early friendships and exposure to New York, London, Geneva and County Meath. The family history has always been a millstone on this gentleman's shoulders and the second part of the book describes the years since he came home to Dunsany.

[Joanna Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this honest insight into a unique life!

[Clare Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting and moving insight into Dunsany Castle, and how Randal took over his family legacy, going against old traditions to create a beautiful natural world.

Lots of fascinating detail alongside a personal story of change and development.