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Forget Me Not: Finding the Forgotten Species of Climate-Change Britain
Join Sophie Pavelle on a low-carbon journey around Britain in search of ten animals and habitats threatened by climate change in the 21st century
Forget-me-not--a beautiful flower and a plea from our islands' wildlife. When climate change has driven dozens of our most charismatic species to extinction, will they be forgotten?
Like many of her generation, Sophie Pavelle is determined to demand action on climate change. In her hilarious and thought-provoking first book, she describes the trips she took to see ten rare native species: species that could disappear by 2050 and be forgotten by the end of the century if their habitats continue to decline.
Pavelle challenged herself to find them the low-carbon way, travelling the length of Britain on foot, by bicycle, in an electric car, by kayak, on ferries, and in a lot of trains. From Bodmin Moor to the Orkney Islands, Pavelle encountered species on the front line of climate change in Britain. Which are going to be seriously affected, and why? Could some bounce back from the brink, or are we too late to save them?
Forget Me Not is a clarion call: we all need to play a part in tackling this most existential of threats. Everyone can see wildlife in the British Isles without contributing to its destruction. With joyful irreverence, Pavelle shows us we can dare to hope. Journey with her, and she may even inspire you to take action for nature and head out on your own low-carbon adventure.
Forget-me-not--a beautiful flower and a plea from our islands' wildlife. When climate change has driven dozens of our most charismatic species to extinction, will they be forgotten?
Like many of her generation, Sophie Pavelle is determined to demand action on climate change. In her hilarious and thought-provoking first book, she describes the trips she took to see ten rare native species: species that could disappear by 2050 and be forgotten by the end of the century if their habitats continue to decline.
Pavelle challenged herself to find them the low-carbon way, travelling the length of Britain on foot, by bicycle, in an electric car, by kayak, on ferries, and in a lot of trains. From Bodmin Moor to the Orkney Islands, Pavelle encountered species on the front line of climate change in Britain. Which are going to be seriously affected, and why? Could some bounce back from the brink, or are we too late to save them?
Forget Me Not is a clarion call: we all need to play a part in tackling this most existential of threats. Everyone can see wildlife in the British Isles without contributing to its destruction. With joyful irreverence, Pavelle shows us we can dare to hope. Journey with her, and she may even inspire you to take action for nature and head out on your own low-carbon adventure.
352 pages, Hardcover
Published June 9, 2022
55 people are currently reading
733 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 15, 2022
There was a lot to like in Sophie Pavelle's debut popular science title. In it, she visits ten locations in the UK (against the backdrop of the Covid lockdowns) where species that are in some way threatened by humans and/or climate change are found.
The writing style is extremely light and personal, while the content on the different species was both interesting and informative. I particularly enjoyed chapters on sea grass and dung beetles, which are accompanied by coverage of a species each of butterfly, porpoise, bat, guillemot, salmon, hare, bird of prey and bumblebee. There's a nice mix of three threads - writing about the species itself, about the visit to the location (so something close to travel writing, as Pavelle attempts to avoid driving and flying as much as possible) and about the environmental side.
I'm not sure the writing style is for everyone - I found it verged on arch at times, didn't endear me with several enthusiastic references to Love Island and had some comments that felt distinctly laboured, such as 'It's only natural that a group of animals would come in all shapes and sizes. One only has to take the midnight train from Bristol Temple Meads station to draw parallels with our species.' This baffled me - she's talking about how variable bats are - but their variation is very considerable and occurs between species. Humans are a single species and, in animal terms, have absolutely trivial variation. I know she was trying to be funny, but for me the joke fell flat.
Like many books with a strong eco-flavour, this one struggles to take in the big picture, telling us what's wrong but not offering a consistent alternative, or considering all sides of the argument. So, for example, Pavelle extols the virtues of good cow dung for the environment, but doesn't square this with the climate change activists' view that we should not eat meat, and so need to get rid of cows (making organic agriculture pretty much impossible as a result).
Similarly, Pavelle tells us how harmless red kites are and how wrong farmers are to consider them a problem. I think this reflect the way she spent a lot more time talking to environmental activists than farmers. If, like me, she'd had a farmer show her a dead lamb with its eyes pecked out by a red kite, she might be less likely to dismiss the problems it causes with 'the devastating truth is that a red kite could barely kill a frog, so weak are its legs and feet'. I love red kites (which you can't seem to move for where I live) and foxes too, for example, but I do understand why farmers have a problem with them.
This is, then, a likeable introduction to a set of species we could and should do more to protect, with a very personal style - but it does suffer a little from naivety and lack of thinking through the issues.
The writing style is extremely light and personal, while the content on the different species was both interesting and informative. I particularly enjoyed chapters on sea grass and dung beetles, which are accompanied by coverage of a species each of butterfly, porpoise, bat, guillemot, salmon, hare, bird of prey and bumblebee. There's a nice mix of three threads - writing about the species itself, about the visit to the location (so something close to travel writing, as Pavelle attempts to avoid driving and flying as much as possible) and about the environmental side.
I'm not sure the writing style is for everyone - I found it verged on arch at times, didn't endear me with several enthusiastic references to Love Island and had some comments that felt distinctly laboured, such as 'It's only natural that a group of animals would come in all shapes and sizes. One only has to take the midnight train from Bristol Temple Meads station to draw parallels with our species.' This baffled me - she's talking about how variable bats are - but their variation is very considerable and occurs between species. Humans are a single species and, in animal terms, have absolutely trivial variation. I know she was trying to be funny, but for me the joke fell flat.
Like many books with a strong eco-flavour, this one struggles to take in the big picture, telling us what's wrong but not offering a consistent alternative, or considering all sides of the argument. So, for example, Pavelle extols the virtues of good cow dung for the environment, but doesn't square this with the climate change activists' view that we should not eat meat, and so need to get rid of cows (making organic agriculture pretty much impossible as a result).
Similarly, Pavelle tells us how harmless red kites are and how wrong farmers are to consider them a problem. I think this reflect the way she spent a lot more time talking to environmental activists than farmers. If, like me, she'd had a farmer show her a dead lamb with its eyes pecked out by a red kite, she might be less likely to dismiss the problems it causes with 'the devastating truth is that a red kite could barely kill a frog, so weak are its legs and feet'. I love red kites (which you can't seem to move for where I live) and foxes too, for example, but I do understand why farmers have a problem with them.
This is, then, a likeable introduction to a set of species we could and should do more to protect, with a very personal style - but it does suffer a little from naivety and lack of thinking through the issues.
June 16, 2022
I have followed Sophie Pavelle on social media for some time, since I discovered her work with the Beaver Trust. Her approach is fun, quirky, educational, and direct. With a cheeky sense of humour broadened by a slightly over-developed sarcasm gland, she has an ability to make doom-and-gloom topics relevant by sprinkling hope and science-backed ways to counter their affects.
Given her established background working with British wildlife, and being involved in re-wilding projects, I made a beeline for her book (there's a joke about this in the book, so had to include it here!), and wasn't disappointed.
In "Forget Me Not", Pavelle goes in search of ten native UK species that are being so impacted by climate change, they may soon disappear altogether. These range from our smallest bird of prey - the Merlin - to our rarest bumblebee. With each, she tries to seek them out both sustainably and with the help of the committed scientists working to reverse their plight.
Pavelle's descriptions are so vivid, she made me want to go in search of each of the animals she was on the trail of. It reminded me that there are so many incredible places in the UK I still haven't visited or seen, despite having been to a good few of the sites she mentions. And with each chapter, the reminder that enough wasn't being done was stark - but not without hope in most cases.
I have to admit, as an older (well, older than them!), life-long naturalist, I was a little suspicious when the new generation of naturalists appeared - especially on social media. They all seemed to be attractive, young women and I was concerned that these aspects were being focused on more than their credentials and was leading their popularity. At the same time, I wondered if other, more-qualified naturalists were missing their spot in the limelight at their expense. However, after the last few years, as stories of abuse, harassment, assault, and worse have come to light - I feel ashamed for ever thinking in that way. Pavelle herself discusses struggling with imposter syndrome in the book. And as Pavelle shows in her fun and topical writing style, she (and they) are the genuine article.
However - such as when she admits that she didn't know there were solitary bees until she was asked to write an article on them (suggesting that in this case, there would have been somebody better qualified); not owning binoculars, or not really being that inclined towards nature generally initially - it did occur to me that this book had been inspired more by follower numbers than by a budding young nature writer wanting to put pen to paper. Millennial and Generation Z readers might be thrilled by the mentions of Love Island, and the plentiful "mate" and "babe", as well as the somewhat laboured, mind-dump style of writing, but in some cases I felt it wandered off subject.
But the book could also be described as travel writing - as so much of the narrative is about the journey taken. And it is fun, well-paced and full of passion - and pride for both the species and the scientists met along the way. I would definitely recommend.
Given her established background working with British wildlife, and being involved in re-wilding projects, I made a beeline for her book (there's a joke about this in the book, so had to include it here!), and wasn't disappointed.
In "Forget Me Not", Pavelle goes in search of ten native UK species that are being so impacted by climate change, they may soon disappear altogether. These range from our smallest bird of prey - the Merlin - to our rarest bumblebee. With each, she tries to seek them out both sustainably and with the help of the committed scientists working to reverse their plight.
Pavelle's descriptions are so vivid, she made me want to go in search of each of the animals she was on the trail of. It reminded me that there are so many incredible places in the UK I still haven't visited or seen, despite having been to a good few of the sites she mentions. And with each chapter, the reminder that enough wasn't being done was stark - but not without hope in most cases.
I have to admit, as an older (well, older than them!), life-long naturalist, I was a little suspicious when the new generation of naturalists appeared - especially on social media. They all seemed to be attractive, young women and I was concerned that these aspects were being focused on more than their credentials and was leading their popularity. At the same time, I wondered if other, more-qualified naturalists were missing their spot in the limelight at their expense. However, after the last few years, as stories of abuse, harassment, assault, and worse have come to light - I feel ashamed for ever thinking in that way. Pavelle herself discusses struggling with imposter syndrome in the book. And as Pavelle shows in her fun and topical writing style, she (and they) are the genuine article.
However - such as when she admits that she didn't know there were solitary bees until she was asked to write an article on them (suggesting that in this case, there would have been somebody better qualified); not owning binoculars, or not really being that inclined towards nature generally initially - it did occur to me that this book had been inspired more by follower numbers than by a budding young nature writer wanting to put pen to paper. Millennial and Generation Z readers might be thrilled by the mentions of Love Island, and the plentiful "mate" and "babe", as well as the somewhat laboured, mind-dump style of writing, but in some cases I felt it wandered off subject.
But the book could also be described as travel writing - as so much of the narrative is about the journey taken. And it is fun, well-paced and full of passion - and pride for both the species and the scientists met along the way. I would definitely recommend.
January 28, 2024
Oh god I just found this book so annoying. There's some genuinely good information here, but I could really do with that constant "relatable" asides from the horrendously middle-class author. "Oo, I watch Love Island so I'm just like you guys! ie. not an expert, so why am I writing this!" Politically it's all over the shop too, with a prevailing inclination towards the message of "nature is nice and climate change bad" but with a profound incuriosity as to how we actually need to tackle these issues. Too often digs are made at individual action rather than systemic issues, and it just feels broadly apathetic. The concept of writing a nature/travel book whilst trying to use low-emission travel is an interesting one, but half the time Pavelle just gives up and gets a lift off her dad or rents an electric car for a few days (in a section that feels like straight ad copy for BMW). Worst of all is the contradiction of an almost fetishistic adoration for trains because they "feel like Hogwarts Express" sitting alongside several unelaborated diatribes against HS2 because they have to chop some trees down to put the rails in place. Trains are at once the future, but must not be improved upon on in any way "just so we can have an extra caramel latte in the mornings". It's so incredibly southern to just ignore the desperate need for cheap, low-carbon fast travel between the north and south of England and Scotland.
Honestly I just found myself almost constantly rolling my eyes for the duration of Forget Me Not. I like the concept (I mean, it's literally just Douglas Adams' Last Chance to See but entirely in the UK) but the prose is poor, the descriptions are lacking and the politics are completely without substance. All of this is topped off with an afterword that says "I did sooo much research for this book, honest, but I didn't want to actually cite my sources because it's 'not that kind of book', so just DM me for the list!" Ridiculous. I wouldn't be so annoyed if there wasn't genuine potential here, but it's lacking the anger and political passion that this book needs, and there's too many frivolous anedoctes that only distract from good information.
Honestly I just found myself almost constantly rolling my eyes for the duration of Forget Me Not. I like the concept (I mean, it's literally just Douglas Adams' Last Chance to See but entirely in the UK) but the prose is poor, the descriptions are lacking and the politics are completely without substance. All of this is topped off with an afterword that says "I did sooo much research for this book, honest, but I didn't want to actually cite my sources because it's 'not that kind of book', so just DM me for the list!" Ridiculous. I wouldn't be so annoyed if there wasn't genuine potential here, but it's lacking the anger and political passion that this book needs, and there's too many frivolous anedoctes that only distract from good information.
July 31, 2023
Lively and impassioned account of Sophie Pavelle’s trip around Britain in search of ten threatened species from butterflies to bees, and her investigation into the effect of the climate crisis on their habitats and survival. She takes as many low carbon trips as possible and also talks to experts in the species concerned to understand how they are threatened and what can be done about it.
I bought this book after hearing Sophie speak at my local bookshop, and found it as enthusiastic, articulate and engaging as the author was in person. It is designed to appeal to as wide an audience as possible, with key terms being explained or illustrated (often with popular culture references) and the narrative bowling along at speed. I was fascinated by the descriptions of the Orkneys, Welsh coast and Dartmoor, and learned an amazing amount about all the species listed.
This book would appeal to anyone with an interest in nature and a concern about the impact of climate change on our world, and is an enjoyable read with a hopeful perspective on the difficulties that many of our native species are facing.
I bought this book after hearing Sophie speak at my local bookshop, and found it as enthusiastic, articulate and engaging as the author was in person. It is designed to appeal to as wide an audience as possible, with key terms being explained or illustrated (often with popular culture references) and the narrative bowling along at speed. I was fascinated by the descriptions of the Orkneys, Welsh coast and Dartmoor, and learned an amazing amount about all the species listed.
This book would appeal to anyone with an interest in nature and a concern about the impact of climate change on our world, and is an enjoyable read with a hopeful perspective on the difficulties that many of our native species are facing.
July 14, 2022
Forget me not was a pure pleasure to read. Sophie Pavelle joyously describes her journeys around the UK to visit species threaten by climate change. Her enthusiastic description of each place has inspired me to discover more of the UK and has highlighted how much at our doorstep we take for granted. I particularly enjoyed the bilberry bumblebee chapter and the nostalgic description of Dartmoor.
The development of each species really brought each animal to life whilst also describing how they are affected my climate changed. Although the book covers many serious topics, Pavelle’s vibrant tone keeps you reading and brings fun and energy to each chapter.
Forget me not is a digestible insight into how species in the UK are currently responding to climate change. A really lovely read.
The development of each species really brought each animal to life whilst also describing how they are affected my climate changed. Although the book covers many serious topics, Pavelle’s vibrant tone keeps you reading and brings fun and energy to each chapter.
Forget me not is a digestible insight into how species in the UK are currently responding to climate change. A really lovely read.
November 3, 2024
Eye opening. Beautiful. Super interesting. This is all I have to say
October 18, 2022
Surprisingly not as depressing as you might think it would be to be reading *literally* anything relating to climate change. Also was so funny that i found myself reading it in public and giggling like an idiot at poo jokes but I didn't care because it was just that good.
February 18, 2023
Picked by bookclub as a monthly read.
It was rather refreshing to read from a author who doesn't proclaim to know everything so it gave the feeling of learning alongside as Sophie set on her quest to journey around Britain in search of ten animals and habitats threatened by climate change in the 21st century. These parts I enjoyed but then I felt it switched to essay format when focussing on the animals and my attention would wane a bit.
However I enjoyed the enthusiasm, young outlook and determination as the author challenged herself to find them the low-carbon way, travelling the length of Britain on foot, by bicycle, in an electric car, by kayak, on ferries and in a lot of trains. From Bodmin Moor to the Orkney Islands, Sophie encountered species on the frontline of climate change in Britain and queried their survival.
A very thought provoking read.
It was rather refreshing to read from a author who doesn't proclaim to know everything so it gave the feeling of learning alongside as Sophie set on her quest to journey around Britain in search of ten animals and habitats threatened by climate change in the 21st century. These parts I enjoyed but then I felt it switched to essay format when focussing on the animals and my attention would wane a bit.
However I enjoyed the enthusiasm, young outlook and determination as the author challenged herself to find them the low-carbon way, travelling the length of Britain on foot, by bicycle, in an electric car, by kayak, on ferries and in a lot of trains. From Bodmin Moor to the Orkney Islands, Sophie encountered species on the frontline of climate change in Britain and queried their survival.
A very thought provoking read.
September 18, 2022
I absolutely loved this!! A really refreshing style of nature writing from somebody who doesn't profess to know everything (and often wants to persuade you that she knows nothing at all - but don't listen to her...!) but learns along the way with you, in a conversational and anecdotal way. Pop culture references and wit are interspersed with groundbreaking science and the words of experts interviewed for the book. The book sees Sophie go on a series of low-carbon trips around the UK looking for (and not always finding) 10 species... each a bit of an underdog, magical characters in their own way, and under threat due to climate-change. Proof that reading about and learning about these topics doesn't have to always be doom and gloom.
Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy.
Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy.
July 11, 2022
An incredible, unique book. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was blown away by the information, the science, the way difficult topics were navigated and the author's style of writing. Didn't want it to end!
August 1, 2022
This book was a refreshing take on wildlife conservation and I really enjoyed reading it and it has inspired me to read more about these species. I agree with other reviews that sometimes the writing style felt a bit chaotic, but, having said this, it also felt intimate and without artifice which was what made it so refreshing to read. It also felt very accessible to anyone dipping into a book about nature for the first time and in our social media, low attention span world, anything that can encourage people to get out into the natural world is wonderful! Nice one Sophie, thanks for writing!
January 24, 2024
I bloody loved this! Sophie is a fresh, young female writer (a rare beast in nature writing) who has found an authentic, distinct, often hilarious voice and uses it brilliantly in this examination of species we are at risk of losing in the UK if we carry on as we are doing.
She takes complex, emotive debates - like grouse shooting - and tricky science - like ocean health - and summarises with ease. Of course, it's not always exhaustive, but as an intro to each species or environment, it's a winner. She also speaks to some amazing, often authoritative, experts to give more context and detail. And she exudes passion, get-up-and-go and rapport with all those she talks to
Her insults, meanwhile - 'a right salad', 'like a thumb', etc - often directed at herself, are brilliantly self-deprecating, while her use of hashtags is #rad. It's also a very inclusive read; she frequently refers to readers as 'friends', which is a lovely touch in a genre which can sometimes feel formal and cold.
Sophie mentions fearing imposter syndrome in the acknowledgements, but she need not worry. The book may not appeal to everyone, it can be a bit winsome and not every analogy works, but it will surely appeal to a younger, Gen Z audience, who need to be reading about climate change and nature's steady decline. And getting this understanding from a peer is likely going to be way more effective than from an ancient.
I just wish she'd invest in some bike paniers instead of using a sweaty rucksack when cycling. #GAMECHANGER !!
She takes complex, emotive debates - like grouse shooting - and tricky science - like ocean health - and summarises with ease. Of course, it's not always exhaustive, but as an intro to each species or environment, it's a winner. She also speaks to some amazing, often authoritative, experts to give more context and detail. And she exudes passion, get-up-and-go and rapport with all those she talks to
Her insults, meanwhile - 'a right salad', 'like a thumb', etc - often directed at herself, are brilliantly self-deprecating, while her use of hashtags is #rad. It's also a very inclusive read; she frequently refers to readers as 'friends', which is a lovely touch in a genre which can sometimes feel formal and cold.
Sophie mentions fearing imposter syndrome in the acknowledgements, but she need not worry. The book may not appeal to everyone, it can be a bit winsome and not every analogy works, but it will surely appeal to a younger, Gen Z audience, who need to be reading about climate change and nature's steady decline. And getting this understanding from a peer is likely going to be way more effective than from an ancient.
I just wish she'd invest in some bike paniers instead of using a sweaty rucksack when cycling. #GAMECHANGER !!
June 13, 2022
This book was an utter delight to read. A dessert, equal parts sweet and bitter. Pavelle's writing style is much jauntier than most writers currently on the nature scene, but I quickly fell into it. So many times I found myself smiling or chuckling - or frowning whenever I came across a particularly worrying or saddening piece of information.
Pavelle's background is science communications, which very much comes through here - she glides through concepts and the workings of the natural world, and while the seasoned reader of nature- and pop science-writing will find themselves treading familiar ground in places, the book covers such a variety of species and habitats, the threats they face, and the scientists and conservationists trying to help them, that it's impossible to be bored.
There's also an entertaining travelogue element to the book as the author zips all over the country by bike, train, ferry, foot, and electric car (with just one petrol car thrown into the mix). Some of the places I am absolutely itching to visit now.
In short - this book would probably be a wonderful gateway for any reader new to nature writing, and for me, it was a moreish treat.
Pavelle's background is science communications, which very much comes through here - she glides through concepts and the workings of the natural world, and while the seasoned reader of nature- and pop science-writing will find themselves treading familiar ground in places, the book covers such a variety of species and habitats, the threats they face, and the scientists and conservationists trying to help them, that it's impossible to be bored.
There's also an entertaining travelogue element to the book as the author zips all over the country by bike, train, ferry, foot, and electric car (with just one petrol car thrown into the mix). Some of the places I am absolutely itching to visit now.
In short - this book would probably be a wonderful gateway for any reader new to nature writing, and for me, it was a moreish treat.
February 21, 2024
This made me want to go out and find some creatures!! I really liked the writing it felt a lot easier to read than any other nature book I’ve read and everything was explained well. Also the cover is really nice and I love the illustrations for each chapter.
August 16, 2023
I'll be honest - I don't write many book reviews but with Sophie Pavelle I will make an exception. 'forget me not' is a joyous celebration of life! I loved it! - more to the point, I loved Sophie's 'get up & go' attitude to life, her passion for the countryside and her commitment to making a difference. I loved the way she communicated all that through the written word.
Only someone so passionate, energetic and committed would take on the dual challenge of convincing a sceptical public as to the virtues (to our environmental heritage) of sea grass & the dung beetle. I admit, I 'wobbled' a bit on the 'sea grass' chapter - I mean, everyone loves a fratillary but a dung beetle! Well, Sophie won me over and from then on, it was a joyous ride through the British countryside. Sophie Pavelle is the best thing to come out of Devon since clotted cream... inspirational!
Only someone so passionate, energetic and committed would take on the dual challenge of convincing a sceptical public as to the virtues (to our environmental heritage) of sea grass & the dung beetle. I admit, I 'wobbled' a bit on the 'sea grass' chapter - I mean, everyone loves a fratillary but a dung beetle! Well, Sophie won me over and from then on, it was a joyous ride through the British countryside. Sophie Pavelle is the best thing to come out of Devon since clotted cream... inspirational!
July 9, 2022
I’ve talked myself into an extra star here as the book has been well researched and the choice of species selected is appealing.
Pavelle’s writing style however, I cannot get on with. Whenever she veers off topic, which is frequently, too frequently, the book becomes painful to read.
Pavelle’s writing style however, I cannot get on with. Whenever she veers off topic, which is frequently, too frequently, the book becomes painful to read.
July 21, 2023
Really didn’t like the authors style of writing, very hard to follow as she veers off the subject the whole way through. I really wanted to like this but it’s completely unreadable
May 11, 2023
Forget me not is a look at ten British animals that are at risk of disappearing from our shores and the authors’ quest to go see them during a period of history that we all hope will never return. That she was able to travel from Exeter to Scotland, the Peak District etc during a pandemic is a feat in itself. These are not the most endangered British animals but ones that we could save if we can find the will and resources to do so. Each chapter looks at a separate animal from Seagrass through the Dung Beetle, Harbour Porpoises and to the majestic Merlin. Sophie Pavelle cycles, trains and drives around Britain occasionally stopping for food and quite often stripping down to her undies in her quest to try and see these fast disappearing fauna and flora.
Sophie does not manage to see all of these (sorry if that is a spoiler) but this makes the book a little more real. IMHO we see too many wildlife programmes where they say an animal is impossible to find whilst showing lots of them on the screen somewhat destroying their argument.
My only gripe with the book is that, although there is a nice sketch of each animal at the start of the chapters I would have liked to see some photos rather than having to go elsewhere to see what they look like.
Overall a great book that kept my interest to the last page. Recommended for anyone wwho is interested in wildlife and conservation.
Sophie does not manage to see all of these (sorry if that is a spoiler) but this makes the book a little more real. IMHO we see too many wildlife programmes where they say an animal is impossible to find whilst showing lots of them on the screen somewhat destroying their argument.
My only gripe with the book is that, although there is a nice sketch of each animal at the start of the chapters I would have liked to see some photos rather than having to go elsewhere to see what they look like.
Overall a great book that kept my interest to the last page. Recommended for anyone wwho is interested in wildlife and conservation.
December 15, 2023
2 Stars
Absolutely gutted to be rating this book so low but I have to be honest. I really struggled with the author's writing style. It was all over the place, went off on random tangents, talked in slang and was generally badly written. I'm honestly not sure how this got past the editors at Bloomsbury as it makes the book seem very childish and to not be taken seriously.
I also struggled with the fact that about 70% of this book is Sophie talking about how she travels to the places she is visting, random stories of her past and general talk about every single thing she saw on her journeys. This got old really quick and it was not what I wanted from this book. I bought it as I thought that it would primarily be about these ten species that are at risk of extinction. Unfortunately there is very little information about them compared to the length of the book.
I'm gutted as I was really wanting to love this and support a young female nature writer. But this wasn't a nature book in my view, it was more a journey book (which I always avoid).
Sadly I don't recommend this book and there are so many much better books about the UK's wildlife and climate change.
Absolutely gutted to be rating this book so low but I have to be honest. I really struggled with the author's writing style. It was all over the place, went off on random tangents, talked in slang and was generally badly written. I'm honestly not sure how this got past the editors at Bloomsbury as it makes the book seem very childish and to not be taken seriously.
I also struggled with the fact that about 70% of this book is Sophie talking about how she travels to the places she is visting, random stories of her past and general talk about every single thing she saw on her journeys. This got old really quick and it was not what I wanted from this book. I bought it as I thought that it would primarily be about these ten species that are at risk of extinction. Unfortunately there is very little information about them compared to the length of the book.
I'm gutted as I was really wanting to love this and support a young female nature writer. But this wasn't a nature book in my view, it was more a journey book (which I always avoid).
Sadly I don't recommend this book and there are so many much better books about the UK's wildlife and climate change.
July 6, 2022
After a 04.30 start delivery trip to St Margaret’s bay near Dover from my home in Somerset and back again the odometer clicked slightly over 400miles as I have finished just after 2pm. Quite a journey I know but I had just he best company in the voice of Sophie Pavelle. I was enjoying her audio version of her book ‘Forget Me Not’ published by Bloomsbury. Aside from the very important messages about our devastating effect on our wildlife that she illustrates in data rich mix of humour and compassion; this woman’s writing is truly beautiful. Please somebody who is in charge of awards for such work grab a copy and then find her and bestow on her a huge recognition for her efforts. The descriptions, the emotions, the humour and the delightful delivery was uplifting. She finds so many people who are working so hard to save what we have. I’ve spent much of my 50 plus years despairing about the uk wildlife but this younger generation are just fantastic in their efforts to reverse the rot. Well done and a huge thank you Sophie.
September 2, 2022
This book is a real first for me... It’s the only climate change-based book that has genuinely made me smile, and burst out in laughter - all very much to my husband's surprise as I’m usually looking quite frustrated and red-faced when reading this topic. Sophie is one of a kind and gem. Please keep writing and giving a voice to those who don't have one.
Sophie tells a hilarious and thought-provoking story travelling the length of Britain on foot, bicycle, train, kayak, ferry and car. As you journey with Sophie each new chapter reveals a new character that I learned so much about. From an overdressed hare to a flirty butterfly, a playful porpoise, heroic salmon, and poo-loving dung beetle.
Sophie doesn’t try to be a specialist, she admits the gaps in her knowledge, but her curiosity, nerdy character, epic story-telling, humour, and approach to such a complex topic of interconnectedness is quite wonderful. I read someone descrbie it as an open-hearted love letter to 10 species - and this is the best description there is. Thanks Soph, a great read.
Sophie tells a hilarious and thought-provoking story travelling the length of Britain on foot, bicycle, train, kayak, ferry and car. As you journey with Sophie each new chapter reveals a new character that I learned so much about. From an overdressed hare to a flirty butterfly, a playful porpoise, heroic salmon, and poo-loving dung beetle.
Sophie doesn’t try to be a specialist, she admits the gaps in her knowledge, but her curiosity, nerdy character, epic story-telling, humour, and approach to such a complex topic of interconnectedness is quite wonderful. I read someone descrbie it as an open-hearted love letter to 10 species - and this is the best description there is. Thanks Soph, a great read.
July 13, 2023
Well ... less than impressed. I was keen to read this after the reviews and the author is a good writer, many of the facts she explains (I write as a biologist) are interesting and she gives her sources references, which is not common in popular writing. All well and good, but my goodness her style is so, so irritating to the extent that after wading on for over half the book I asked for a refund from Kindle, and got it.
One example - the chapter about the Marsh Fritillary describes the sensitivity of the very specific habitat needs of the species and how little it would take to push the species over the edge (important message) but then she ends the key paragraph with the childish words "Bibbity-bobbety-boo-hoo" (I approximate). What on earth does that bring to the conversation? That is too typical of her writing and it is pointless, silly and she does herself a disservice ... coming across as a text-based TikTok stylist or a gushing teenager at the dinner table. Why, for heaven's sake? Why? This is a serious subject, at least employ serious language.
One example - the chapter about the Marsh Fritillary describes the sensitivity of the very specific habitat needs of the species and how little it would take to push the species over the edge (important message) but then she ends the key paragraph with the childish words "Bibbity-bobbety-boo-hoo" (I approximate). What on earth does that bring to the conversation? That is too typical of her writing and it is pointless, silly and she does herself a disservice ... coming across as a text-based TikTok stylist or a gushing teenager at the dinner table. Why, for heaven's sake? Why? This is a serious subject, at least employ serious language.
October 28, 2022
As well as a book about the conservation of the 10 species highlighted, it is also a story of Sophie's journey, intellectually, emotionally and physically, to investigate their plight in as low carbon a way as possible.
Written in Sophie's inimitable style, the narrative draws you in, settles you down and then lands a few much needed left hooks just when you least expect it.
...'conformation of the raging storm humans cause when they're at the helm'...
But Sophie's ability to lead you through the sometimes very depressing reality facing these creatures and leave you with a glimmer of hope is what makes this book so special.
To call a book a 'must read' is a bit of a cliche these days but this is one book that really deserves the accolade on more than one level. You must read it, not just because it's one of the most entertaining and enjoyable books I've read in a long, long time, but also because the message it contains is so incredibly important.
Written in Sophie's inimitable style, the narrative draws you in, settles you down and then lands a few much needed left hooks just when you least expect it.
...'conformation of the raging storm humans cause when they're at the helm'...
But Sophie's ability to lead you through the sometimes very depressing reality facing these creatures and leave you with a glimmer of hope is what makes this book so special.
To call a book a 'must read' is a bit of a cliche these days but this is one book that really deserves the accolade on more than one level. You must read it, not just because it's one of the most entertaining and enjoyable books I've read in a long, long time, but also because the message it contains is so incredibly important.
July 29, 2025
I wasn't sure about reading this book originally and that's nothing against the author, as she has bucket loads of talent. Its just the depressing feelings you get from reading about the impact of climate change and the resulting helplessness. However, I did read the book and I am glad I did. Sophie is a very clever writer, and has a great way of explaining the details in a witty but thoughtful way. She has a real talent for writing and in such a way that you feel like she is talking to you down the pub. She also provides balance to the subject by describing the issues in detail, but counters that with a little bit of hope. Having lived and worked in Devon I also appreciated some of the locations, especially Fingle bridge, which is a family favorite. The diversity of the species covered also helped to give a view from different perspectives, which was a feat in itself. My takeaway from the book is that humans have really screwed nature over, but there is a small band of experts and volunteers who know whats what and what we need to do. Still a worry, but at least there are some eyes on the ball and someone like Sophie to give us a kick in the Netherlands and a heads up. 😉
March 19, 2023
Excellently navigating through the trials and tribulations of wildlife and a climate change Britain without an overwhelmed sense of doom at the end.
This book is uplifting, funny, witty and practical in its approach to guiding you through the solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises. It leaves you both with a sense of hope and a kick up the butt to play your role. Facts and stats are spattered throughout to just the right degree - they’re facts you can pass on at the pub or explain to your gran without too much trouble making this book one I know I will return to many times.
Truly inspirational (and I don’t say that often!), especially in a world where climate anxiety sometimes gets the better of us.
This book is uplifting, funny, witty and practical in its approach to guiding you through the solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises. It leaves you both with a sense of hope and a kick up the butt to play your role. Facts and stats are spattered throughout to just the right degree - they’re facts you can pass on at the pub or explain to your gran without too much trouble making this book one I know I will return to many times.
Truly inspirational (and I don’t say that often!), especially in a world where climate anxiety sometimes gets the better of us.
August 3, 2023
While the writing style didn't always work for me, with its anthropomorphism based on pop culture references and the 'babe/hun/mate', etc., it has inspired me to explore natural spots in the UK to seek out more diverse species.
Also, I learned some new things about conservation and the state of the natural world in the UK, though I would like a list of references (without emailing the author, as she suggests at the end...), especially because there is some likely misinformation, such as stating that in 100 years there won't be any insects at this rate. Dave Goulson rubbished this claim in his book Silent Earth and I suspect her reference is a Guardian news article. Newspapers don't constitute scientific sources.
Also, I learned some new things about conservation and the state of the natural world in the UK, though I would like a list of references (without emailing the author, as she suggests at the end...), especially because there is some likely misinformation, such as stating that in 100 years there won't be any insects at this rate. Dave Goulson rubbished this claim in his book Silent Earth and I suspect her reference is a Guardian news article. Newspapers don't constitute scientific sources.
June 21, 2022
‘Forget Me Not’ is a total breath of fresh air. I never thought I would be learning and laughing so much in a book about climate-change. The author balances complex, challenging topics with beautiful prose and travel narrative. I’ve never read a book like it and finally feel as though nature writing could be for me, after years of finding this genre hard work. I loved this book and am widely recommending it.
October 14, 2022
Forget Me Not is a wonderfully written book - a joy to read not only in and of itself, but also for the reassurance it brings knowing that it will open up these complex, nuanced topics to a wider audience - and in particular to a younger generation. It’s an absolute triumph in science communication; Sophie’s way of mixing casual and serious, humour and heartbreak in an accessible, relatable way is ace. Please read!
April 19, 2023
Given the range of books regarding the decline and struggles of species/landscapes currently in the UK, this is a little gem. It raises issues and shows the range of activities being undertaken on the specific species highlighted and for myself I actually found it all uplifting in amongst what can oft seen a depleted natural world. I enjoyed the authors writing style, pace a use of humour.
I am positive that we will hear more from Sophie in the future and her energies are inspiring.
I am positive that we will hear more from Sophie in the future and her energies are inspiring.
July 25, 2023
Incredible book! I think everyone can find something special in this book. Sophie’s narrative voice is so easy to follow along with, funny and likeable. I learnt so much in this book and found it very inspiring in the ways we can protect our local species and find the beauty close to home.
Also loads of really interesting facts I did not know, even as someone who has a pretty widespread knowledge of the natural world.
Highly recommend!
Also loads of really interesting facts I did not know, even as someone who has a pretty widespread knowledge of the natural world.
Highly recommend!
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