Nature's Last Dance: Tales of Wonder in an Age of Extinction

by Natalie Kyriacou

Longlisted for Best Non Fiction in the Indie Book Awards of 2026 and labelled 'the most important environmental book of our times'.

This is a story of survival and extinction, of life and death, of curiosity and perversion, of unimaginable joy and harrowing sorrow.

Amidst the tragedy of wild species extinction lies a hidden world of survival and wonder.
Conservationists are locked in a high-stakes battle with the ghost of a drug lord and his herd of hippos. Scientists are fighting to save a flightless bird that romances rocks. Unconventional animals are upending 21st-century beauty standards, and financiers are betting on whale poo to make its debut on Wall Street.

Set against the backdrop of a rapidly unfolding mass extinction event, Nature's Last Dance takes readers across hunting grounds, through jungles and oceans, inside communities, through trafficking rings and courtrooms, and into the heart of battles to survive against all odds.

Award-winning environmentalist Natalie Kyriacou confronts the extinction crisis with courage and curiosity, charting a new course for nature and showing us why it is so worth fighting for.

Genres: Nature, Nonfiction, Science, Environment, Animals, Natural History, Philosophy

416 pages, Paperback

Published August 26, 2025

About the author

Natalie Kyriacou OAM is an award-winning environmentalist, writer, and company director with a passion for harnessing curiosity to solve nature crises. She is the author of Nature's Last Dance: Tales of Wonder in an Age of Extinction.

Natalie was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia and the Forbes 30 Under 30 honour for her services to wildlife and environmental conservation in 2018 and was recognised as one of The Australian’s ‘Top Innovators’ in 2022. She was the United Nations Environment Programme’s ‘Young Champion of the Earth’ Finalist for her innovation in wildlife and environmental conservation and is LinkedIn’s Top Green Voice. In 2025, she was named as a Marie Claire “Women of the Year” nominee.

She is a Board Director at the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife, a Board Director at CARE Australia, the Founder and Chair of My Green World, a UNESCO Green Citizens Pathfinder, a member of the XPrize Brain Trust for Biodiversity and Conservation, and an Australian Delegate and Climate Justice Lead at the W20 (the official engagement group of the G20). She is a National Ambassador for the Australian Conservation Foundation.

Passionate about protecting the environment and ensuring everyone has a voice in the process, Natalie’s work focuses on connecting people with the environment in meaningful, joyful, and impactful ways.

Find Natalie on:
Instagram: @nat_kyriacou
LinkedIn: Natalie Kyriacou OAM
Website: www.nataliekyriacou.com

Reviews

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Humanity is the only species that actively debates whether or not it should maintain the environmental conditions necessary for its own continued existence. Other species do not struggle with this sort of thing.”

As an ethical vegan, my heart has always leaned more toward animals than humans. Their innocence, their vulnerability, their quiet resilience, it’s what drives every choice I make. Reading Nature’s Last Dance was both a privilege and a wound. Natalie Kyriacou doesn’t sugarcoat the truth: extinction is not some distant concept, it’s happening right now, and it’s tangled in both tragedy and absurdity.

This book hit me harder than I expected. It’s rare to find writing that manages to balance heartbreak, outrage, and humor in such a raw and genuine way. I found myself laughing at moments of absurdity, only to be gutted a page later by the cruelty and indifference our species inflicts on the natural world. Because of that weight, I took my time reading it, letting every word sink in, a chapter at a time. It deserved that kind of attention.

Kyriacou’s stories are wild, strange, and sometimes surreal, They are reminders of what’s at stake. They also carry glimmers of hope, not in a naive way, but in the stubborn way nature continues to fight back despite everything.

Nature’s Last Dance is not just a book, it’s an urgent call to see animals and ecosystems as they truly are: worthy of reverence, not exploitation. For me, it reaffirmed why I live the way I do. For others, I hope it sparks that same fire to care, act, and choose differently before it really is the last dance.

My Highest Recommendation

Congratulations Natalie Kyriacou.

Thank you Affirm Press for my early readers copy.

Available Now!

[Malcolm · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extraordinarily interesting, humourous, saddening, uplifting, readable, broad and well researched, tour of the pressures human systems are exerting on the natural world and the resulting risks to its ongoing ability to sustain our existence. As someone with a lifelong interest in the natural world, and an ever growing anxiety about the destruction our consumptive excesses have wrought, I have read widely on these topics for many years. Never have I come across any work that so cohesively connects all the threads that influence the ongoing destruction of the planet and the organisations working tirelessly to bring the systems back into balance. The book concludes with practical and realistic guidance about how we can all become more engaged in directing our local and global communities toward a more sustainable future. This is a truly exceptional book and should find its way onto the schools curriculum.

[Pete Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a LOT of environmental literature and this one I particularly enjoyed. Great narrative woven together with stories of hope and sadness but most importantly it provided a believable architecture for how we could move the needle and make a difference in a world that needs help.

[Lily Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this book. It is a harrowing yet incredibly witty and thought provoking read that will make you cry then laugh and then cry-laugh. It is informative but without jargon and filled with wonderful stories of nature that you aren’t likely to have heard before. I feel like I’ve become a different person after reading it and it is now something that I find myself wanting to share with every person I come across. Do yourself and our younger generations a favour by reading this book with care and consideration. Make an effort to share it, especially with any people in your life who have their heads buried in the sand and are quite comfortable there.

[Sebastian Berry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nature's Last Dance is a remarkable book that speaks straight to the heart and holds the power to connect with every person. Natalie Kyriacou delivers an account of our humanity and our natural world that masterfully weaves our worlds together through the universal language of humour - as soberingly painful as it is entertaining. While painting a vivid picture of the silent crises facing our planet, the book doesn't just detail the problems; it lights a beacon of hope and solidarity when it has never been needed more. Nature's Last Dance is a bittersweet masterpiece... it's a must-read that reminds us of the profound connection we have to the natural world, and the urgent responsibility we have to protect it.

[Rachel Smyth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A witty, humorous and moving masterpiece that will engage any reader about our natural world. The chapters give perspective of the importance of protecting nature through story telling. Loved every chapter of this book. Was very cleverly written!

[Reto Kofmehl · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that EVERYONE needs to read!
An important reminder of what we're dealing with currently, when it comes to our impact on nature. Written both with amazing examples of how awesome and fun the natural world is, and very concrete recommendations for EVERYBODY about what we can do to limit our harm and help turning things around for the good.
Highly recommended, informative, fun, inspiring and practical read!

[Rozanna Lilley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This heartfelt book on the destruction of the environment and on human cupidity is an incredibly wide-ranging, and often tough, read with an international reach and a welcome Australian focus. It is a call to urgent action but also demands that readers understand that climate change and environmental catastrophe are structural outcomes of late capitalism. There are lots of wonderful, and often sad, stories - the last Tasmania tiger, the "quiet creep of extinction". Then there are the stories of environmental heroism and of political action that worked. Sometimes this is surprising - I'd forgotten about the hole in the ozone layer and the work of Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan to plug this disaster. Indeed, it made me think back to a primary school project I did on pollution in the 1960s. I was distressed then by the state of the world. Now, it is hard not to be overwhelmed by it. Kyriacou places her faith in young people. I hope she is right.

[Sophie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too much social commentary, not enough science.
3/5

[Sharyn Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to audio version.
Wide ranging and compelling journey through evolution to present day life on earth and how we are destroying diversity of life and driving our precious ecosystem towards chaos and despair.
I found her lighthearted story telling style in the voice of a young woman discordant with the often disturbing and very serious content.
I grew up a Christian and though I no longer believe Jesus is God I recognize him as a significant activist for social change out of love for each other and Natalie’s book is a call to activism for the love of life on earth.. Just as Jesus encouraged people to love each other and to distrust worldly powers so Natalie calls us to engage in the struggle against corporate power and consumerism to save the planet for each other where other includes all creatures great and small.
This is a future focused book which ends with stories of young people leading the charge towards more hopeful possibilities.
I think this is an important book that will inspire many people to engage in planet saving action.

[Ayesha Michael · Rating 2 out of 5]

I went into Nature’s Last Dance expecting a dramatic, story driven book based on the reviews describing it as Shakespearean, romantic, quirky and even risqué. I was surprised to find it’s a nonfiction science book rather than a narrative with characters to follow. I kept waiting for a clear storyline, but instead the book focuses on research and scientific exploration.

That said, the themes are powerful. The examination of dysfunctional relationships in nature is fascinating, sometimes darkly funny and often emotional. It made me laugh and it made me cry. The patterns of competition, survival and connection feel dramatic in their own way, but not enough for me to want to keep reading. It was a forced task to get it done every day. Basically humans suck and we’re destroying the world.

While it wasn’t what I expected, it’s thought-provoking and memorable. Just go in knowing this is science-focused rather than a traditional story.

[Robbie Danger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall thought it was a good book and good for people to read and learn about climate and environmental crises. I don’t think I am the target audience as most of the content I was already aware of, but it’s well written and easy to read. It only falls short of getting a 5 star from me as there were a few mentions I felt were underresearched. For example the author mentions Second Bite, the food rescue charity that diverts food waste in Australia from a major supermarket, but these charities save as little as 2% of food waste and I feel are largely greenwashing.

Still a very good book that I would recommend to people wanting to get up to speed but some sections were a bit generous toward incremental corporate initiatives.

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read - well written narrative of nature’s story globally, culturally, socially, scientifically and historically. If I was a book highlighter, I would have highlighted so many quotes, passages and stories that illustrated the the despair and shadows of humans (aka corporates/greed/shortsightedness/colonisation) shaping our perception, systems and value of nature to the hope, strength, regeneration and revelations of nature and the importance of advocates, activists and the youth as changemakers!

[Elise · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great collection of stories on the environment and conservation, quite a few within Australia. Particular highlights were discussions on specialist vs generalist species, ecosystem services, the true meaning of "survival of the fittest", and the need to switch from consuming for status to consuming with intention. Loved the final chapter; an ode to the birdwatchers of the world! 🙌🏻🐦🦅🦢 Read as an audiobook.

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fascinating and brilliant. A wonderful capture of the beauty, resilience, wonder and weirdness of nature - and how deeply we rely on it for our survival. Enjoyable so easily readable, this book made me laugh, cry and deeply moved me. Chapters touch on science, history, economics, politics, culture. I particularly loved the description of the efforts of conservationists in the face of dire odds. This book is a global tour across time and places. You simply must read it.

[Maddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exquisite. The scope of its topics, and the range and depth of its writing, are unparalleled. It is very funny (often biting) while layered with lyrical, poetic prose, distinctive storytelling that illuminates complex subjects with clarity and insight, and underpinned by rigorous research. Nature's Last Dance draws out the full range of emotions... laughter, tears, discomfort, and wonder.

[Freiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


A good book that brings to light the utter devastation humans do to nature and animals, and how illogical and senseless that behavior is.
But there is also so much else going on in this book.
There is also a urgent appeal and pressing plea to open our eyes and truly see that animals and ecosystems are not only important but also worthy of awe and respect, and to not abuse and exploit or treat either with willful ignorance or cruelty.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautifully written and deeply moving book, a perfect blend of heart, hope, and reflection. The storytelling is vivid and poetic, giving a real insight into the fragility of our natural world and inspires to live a more connected life with the environment always in the forefront of our minds. A must read that lingers long after the last page

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent summary of the crisis our species is in with the destruction of the natural world. Natalie has written the book to highlight wonderful work that is being done by a range of people globally, and provided insights on what each of us can do to contribute to hope. A critical read for as many people as possible - very readable for all.

[Romaine Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing read. I thought I’d give it a go after reading a review in one of the print rags but I had no particular expectations. Boy, what a cracker! Really took me by surprise for interest, information and engaging content. Faultlessly researched and presented. One of the best books I’ve read in a while. Just read it!

[Alana Croydon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A disarming, charming, hilarious, tragic, and stunning narrative of the forces shaping humanity and the natural world. Kyriacou tears your heart and puts it back together leaving you with a powerful desire to protect life on Earth, and the roadmap to do it. The final chapter was especially masterful. An easy 5 stars.

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tend to avoid environment-related books but I saw this author speak at an event and was so moved by her that I felt compelled to read her works. I was not disappointed. This book truly changed the way I see the world. I teared up and laughed and appreciated the vast range of emotions that her words evoke. This is an exceptional book and my only surprise is that more people don't know about it.

[KatMar · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5
A good read as an introduction to environmental literature. It was simple, lite, and injected humor into the topics. It didnt really deep dive into any of the issues however, and the flow of the book itself was a bit disjointed.

Still worth the time. Highly recommend the audiobook narrator also

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is incredibly funny, but also informative and filled with the many quirks of the conservation world. An absolutely incredible read that I would give 6 stars if I could.

It perfectly blends some of the more sobering realities of our current climate crisis with hope and humour to make this both accessible and relatable.

[Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in awe of this book...! The wit, humour, intelligence... the broad, deep, and sweeping knowledge that is conveyed in such a beautiful, heartfelt and humourous way. This book is masterful and some of the most appealing and profound writing I have had the pleasure of reading in a long time.

[Linda Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book addressed everything that often has me in despair. Natalie’s knowledge and undeniable talent has meant she has blended hard facts with the quirky travelling to all corners of the earth, sprinkled with humour and hope. I couldnt put it down!

[Mariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing book, I will tell everyone about it. It made me laugh, it made me mad and it almost made me cry along all the people that fight for the world and for every living being. Thank you for making this book Natalie and for inspiring me to do better everyday ❤️

[Deon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This would certainly be the first time I have laughed out loud reading an environmental book. An astonishing tour of the relationship between nature and humanity that will leave you in tears of laughter and grief. Unputdownable. My highest recommendation.

[Brianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant book. Utterly unpredictable, and, although the author says it's 'not really a book about nature', it is still one of the best nature books I have ever read. Should be compulsory reading for anyone who lives on the planet.

[Francisco Valdes · Rating 5 out of 5]

An extraordinary book encompassing all aspects of care of the environment. Described from an Australian perspective it is extrapolable to other realities. I enjoyed it very much. A precious tool to defend our planet.