Hugh's Hedgehog: Obsession Nostalgia And A Very British Animal

Animal Series

by Hugh Warwick

Hugh Warwick is gek op egels. Stapelgek! En hij is niet de enige. Egels blijken ware hartendieven te zijn. Met de kenmerkend Britse humor beschrijft Warwick zijn gedrevenheid voor egels en belevenissen met hen. En dat zijn er nogal wat. Nachtenlang zoekt hij naar die �schattige� bolletjes, onderneemt hij levensgevaarlijke tochten, maakt hij oncomfortabele vliegreizen, heeft hij aantrekkelijke ontmoetingen met bijzondere egelliefhebbers en geniet hij van de prachtige Engelse en Schotse natuur. Hij reist zelfs half China door, op zoek naar een egel die zijn naam draagt. Volgens Warwick gaan egels de wereld redden. Met hun grappige uiterlijk en hun aantrekkingskracht zorgen zij ervoor dat mensen de natuur opnieuw gaan waarderen en beschermen. Warwick vertaalde zijn gedrevenheid in dit hartverwarmende boekje. Zijn dagelijkse observaties, wetenschappelijke feitjes en welhaast filosofische bespiegelingen werken aanstekelijk. Hugh Warwick is een Britse ecoloog die jarenlang onderzoek deed aan egels. Tegenwoordig werkt hij als schrijver, journalist en televisiemaker. Hij houdt een weblog bij over egels en houdt regelmatig lezingen.

Genres: Nonfiction, Nature, Animals, Natural History, Science, History, Memoir

279 pages, Hardcover

First published November 25, 2008

Reviews

[_och_man_ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Z bólem serca muszę wystawić "Jeżom" dużo niższą notę, niż początkowo zakładałam.
To typowa książka "laurka". Nie byłoby w tym nic złego - wszelkie wsparcie oferowane naszym braciom mniejszym zasługuje na obowiązkową pochwałę oraz rozgłos. Problem pojawia się w momencie, gdy lektura weryfikuje oczekiwania czytelnika. Szybki przegląd opinii każe mi przypuszczać, że wyjątkowo nie zasilam obozu mniejszości. Jeśli zasiadam do książki O JEŻACH to właśnie O JEŻACH chciałabym czytać. Nie o panu czy pani, organizacji lub partii. Początek zapowiadał się naprawdę przyjemnie. Strony najeżone (nie mogłam się powstrzymać...) ciekawostkami, rzut oka na kulturę, filozofię, a nawet kulinaria - jestem nawet w stanie zrozumieć zasadność przytoczenia przepisu na jeżowe spaghetti carbonara (pozostawiającego skądinąd pewien niesmak). Ostatnie rozdziały, propagujące proekologiczne rozwiązania również jak najbardziej na plus. Cała reszta... Wymęczyłam się, nie ma co.
Nie pomaga dynamika tekstu (żądam więcej żartobliwego mięcha, okazji do szybszego wypuszczenia powietrza nosem) oraz liczne powtórzenia i "krążenie" dookoła - no właśnie - nie wiadomo czego.
Miało być sympatycznie i z wyczuciem, skończyło się znużeniem.

[Hilary "Fox" · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book!

Hugh Warwick has managed to write a book that is simultaneously informative and deeply entertaining. His passion for the humble hedgehog shines through in every page, and it's impossible to not have some of that rub off on you while reading this book. Indeed, it's impossible not to fall a bit in love with the animal the second you 'do the nose to nose thing' with them.

The hedgehog is an inherently silly animal, but there's something in its industrious and utterly benign nature that attracts both passion and obsession. There's something fascinating in the tiny creature, and what a joy it is to witness that love ignite in everyone I introduce the spiny beasts o. To see those emotions beautifully highlighted in someone else's words is heartwarming. To see it paired with a deeper scientific understanding of the animal was plain beautiful.

I've already passed this book on to two other people, and I honestly can't wait to encourage still others to read it. Save the hedgehog, save the world as the author put it. Any way an animal can be better loved and understood is a good one, and I've seen firsthand how passion for one creature can extend to all the others in our lives.

[GoldGato · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hedgehogs are very happy being Hedgehogs

If you have ever wanted to read about Hedgehogs, this is the book for you. There is a little bit of everything in this one. Biology of the Hedgehog, History of the Hedgehog, Obsessions with Hedgehogs, Hedgehog Olympic Games. Just about everything.



Hugh Warwick is passionate about his subject matter and this certainly comes across to the reader. He believes the Hedgehog is the most charismatic creature on the planet. He may be right. He sounds the alarm on their possible decline and what we humans can do to help. He travels to China in search of a species named after him and he also takes us to the United States, where people tend to dress up their Hedgehogs and place them in competitions...which is more of a reflection on Americans than the poor Hedgies.

I enjoyed reading this book. My knowledge of this animal was formed by Beatrix Potter, so it was wonderful to learn so much more. The section on Hedgehog rescue organizations was enlightening. These are people with heart.

Look into those wild Hedgehog eyes and, if you are lucky, catch a glimpse of a special something, a spark that can change your entire life.

Book Season = Spring (the prudence of the Hedgehog)

[Neelam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started this book on accident thinking it was a different book called the Hedgehog's Dilemma but I'm so happy with all my new hedgehog knowledge

[Orsolya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to the internet/social media; trendy exotic animal/pet fads have seem to risen at an alarming rate. One of the animals of note during the past decade has been hedgehogs. This adorable, spiny ball of love has been intriguing countless folks; myself included (I plan to get one). Reaktion Books aims to showcase the social history of animals in the ‘Animal Series’ and invited Hugh Warwick to add to the list with, “Hedgehog”.

Warwick combines a lightly scientific approach with a social history overview in order to break down “Hedgehog” into a topical view starting with an introduction to hedgehogs followed by features such as historical hedgehogs, literary hedgehogs, philosophical hedgehogs, commercial, etc. Warwick’s writing style is very accessible/readable eschewing scientific jargon and a heady angle for that of a more conversational tone and overview. On the downside, this results in “Hedgehog” overall reading like a college term paper. There is a bit of an ‘oomph’ missing from the piece.

“Hedgehog” is predominately British-focused which makes sense based on the author and hedgehogs being prominent in the United Kingdom but this can also alienate from readers from other locales.

Warwick’s extent of research in the scope of hedgehogs and all things related to the animal is clear and apparent. However, a deeper look at each topic would be welcome. That being said, the intent of Reaktion Books and Warwick is to provide a general view and in this way, “Hedgehog” is quite successful. Warwick maintains the pace and although naturally some chapters are stronger than other; the text as a whole flows well.

“Hedgehog” is a victim of repetition both in terms of verbatim text/information and flow/presentation making the reading choppy at times and a bit tedious for the reader. The main problem with “Hedgehog” lays in the fact that it is not memorable enough. Even hedgehog fans will not find any thoroughly resonant information or that worth repeating. It feels like Warwick “held back”.

Warwick supplements the pages of “Hedgehog” with a bounty of illustrations and photos which strengthens the text and adds to the merit of the work.

The conclusion of “Hedgehog” looks briefly at the current state and future of these animals ending “Hedgehog” on a sold note. Warwick also includes a timeline, references, bibliography, and contact sheer for suitable organizations connected to hedgehogs.

“Hedgehog” is a firm middle-ground, quick-read, solution for those readers seeking an introduction to hedgehogs or for staunch lovers of the litter critters to learn more and extend knowledge. Although “Hedgehog” isn’t a life-changing work; the entertainment value is well-balanced with a slight academic flair.

[Alapogo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Książka jest o jeżach i ... nie jest. W zasadzie autor opowiada tu bardziej o swoich przeżyciach, spotkaniach, polityce i ludziach, którzy się opiekują jeżami. Nie jest to złe, ale jakoś zabrakło tutaj jeża, który przemówiłby sam za siebie. Jest tylko o tym jak jeże postrzegają inni. I wypowiedzi czy opisy można , by dopasować do każdego innego zwierzęcia, które ktoś kocha. Fajnie, że taka książka jest, ale chętnie przeczytam o jeżach inną.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I stumbled on this one at the library. I almost didn't make it through the intro, but so glad I did! Poignant and hilarious-- not to mention charmingly British and self-effacing when it counts. Finished it in two sittings. An un-looked- for gem among hedgerows.

[Becca · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sure what I think of this book. The author and I do not share the same worldview, but sometimes a situation like that can be interesting. This time it just annoys me: he dismisses biblical accuracy on extremely weak 'evidence' because that suits his agenda. Beyond that his point of view is interesting, but I have trouble actually respecting it because I'm afraid he treats all ideas contrary to his the way he treats biblical ideas. Apparently I am not the target audience for this book. I did enjoy reading about hedgehogs and science, and for all the things I learned I'll give this three stars instead of two.

[Hilary "Fox" · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, yes, I love hedgehogs. :)

I've previously read A Prickly Affair by Hugh Warwick, as well as a handful of articles on the animals by him. While A Prickly Affair focused primarily upon the habits of the European Hedgehog and the need for conservation, Hedgehog focuses far more upon the cultural significance of the animal. The book is organized into sections detailing the hedgehog in literature, in film, in music, in mythology, etc. In short, hedgehogs have been insinuated themselves into our lives in more ways that one might expect!

This book is notable for showing a change in heart in Hugh Warwick as well. Previously the author viewed African Pygmy Hedgehogs in the pet trade in a derisive manner, and this book definitely softened that harsh edge. It wasn't an apology, per se, but rather a clarification of his perspective on the manner that was easy to understand. As African Pygmy Hedgehogs get more and more popular as pets (and more and more domesticated) the European Hedgehogs get pushed aside. The lessening of focus on the European Hedgehog has lead to a lessening in their conservation efforts, which is problematic in places where they're soon to be extinct in urban areas - such as England, Denmark, and Norway. Understand also that urban areas are where hedgehogs tend to thrive and you'll see why this is worrisome, and why The Disappearing Hedgehog is an apt name for one of their conservation efforts.

While the future is still rather shaky for the European Hedgehog, this book is a wonderful testimony to the charm that they have and the love that they elicit from people. They're a truly wonderful species, and this book highlights that beautifully.

[Juliet Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hedgehogs are one of the most popular inhabitants of the British countryside (this book describes them as the most universally loved animals, but the author obviously hasn't visited any bunny blogs!).

This book is a wonderful mix of natural history, animal welfare and total eccentricity. It includes an investigation into the reasons why hedgehogs are declining in the wild, whether hedgehogs have caused population declines in seabirds in Scottish islands, an expedition to China to find the very rare Hugh's hedgehog and a brief trip to the Hedgehog Olympic Games.

We meet people who have given up almost everything to set up hedgehog hospitals; find out whether hedgehogs really can harvest fruit by rolling around and find out how best to look after the hedgehogs that visit our gardens.

I imagine most people will be totally charmed by this book and will then want to observe these wonderful animals in the wild. Well in the UK, that's sadly becoming a rare event these days for most of us

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is really only one word to describe this book, and that word is "enchanting".

"Hedgehog" is loaded with lots of facts about hedgehogs. Did you know, for example, that there are fourteen different species of hedgehog?

But what makes this delightful little book a cut above other animal books is the wonderful chapters on hedgehogs in art, literature, and philosophy.

Growing up in New Zealand with hedgehogs living in our large back yard (we had a quarter of an acre), I got to see the wonderful procession of mother and hoglets on several occasions, and developed an abiding love for this adorable, quirky, little creatures. So imagine my delight when New Zealand cartoonist Burton Silver got a mention for his cartoon hedgehogs.

There are many beautiful pictures of hedgehogs, hedgehog art, hedgehog toys etc.

This book is the perfect gift for the hedgehog enthusiast in your life.

Highly recommended.

[Natalie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have a hunch that he's a better speaker than a writer as his stories carry sparks of animation, but simply does not execute it well. He's a hedgehog enthusiast telling his exploits in the wilds. I would have preferred more explicit reasons on why he dislikes them as pets. His stories of people rescuing hedgehogs and founding centers are disturbing as no sane person would want to interact with people with no sense of hygiene or personal awareness. However he does a charming job of bringing these little beasts nearer and I completely agree with his final chapter on how hedgehogs can save the world.

[Caro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think it was possible, but this book made me love hedgehogs even more! It was recommended to me by my friend Hilary. Well-written, charming, and fascinating, it's a great source of information and taught me a lot I didn't know, particularly about European hedgehogs. I hope it inspires lots more people to care about the welfare of hedgehogs in particular (especially wild ones) and the environment in general. Fair warning to younger or more sensitive readers: it does contain some passing references to the various licentious activities of some less-than-moral fictional hedgehogs. Of course, hedgehogs generally are upstanding creatures of exceptional moral fiber.

[Nananula · Rating 3 out of 5]

Za mało jeża w jeżu, że tak powiem. Było dużo informacji odnośnie badaczy i weterynarzy i ogólnie ludzi zajmujących się jeżami, ale takich faktów o jeżach samych w sobie było zadziwiająco mało. Nie tego się spodziewałam

[Paulina Łucja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Książka ogólnie ciekawa tylko momentami autor odbiega od tematu i zaczyna pisać o czymś zupełnie innym, w niektórych rozdziałach bwb książce o jeżach jest mało jeży

[Tony Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can I say? It's a book about hedgehogs. I liked it, but then I do like hedgehogs. I used to have at least four different hedgehogs coming regularly to my garden, but now I have none. If you have no interest in hedgehogs, then this book probably isn't for you. If you have no interest in hedgehogs then you probably aren't going to be reading this review anyway.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this meandering meditation on hedgehogs - everything from their physiology and ecology, to the obsessive love they evoke in humans, to the implications of their declining numbers for the health of the planet and our own species. One criticism is that it's really not clear that this book seems to have gone through several versions with a few alternate titles, which is confusing as the author has written at least one other book on hedgehogs

[DidierDrigbi · Rating 4 out of 5]

[4.5] Fascynująca opowieść o jeżach. Autor bez zażenowania opisuje swoje przygody z tymi kolczastymi bestiami. Nie sposób się nudzić, łatwo się utożsamić. Ale niektóre fragmenty przygód lekko niejasne.

[Dorothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wspaniale sie czyta! Zabawna, inspirujaca i naprawdę zadziwiająca. Naprawdę polecam - nawet jak nie wiesz kim jest jeż albo nie wierzysz w miłość międzygatunkową - po prostu super :)

[agatatoczyta · Rating 2 out of 5]

2,5

Zdecydowanie za dużo szczegółów z życia i (w gruncie rzeczy mało ciekawej) pracy autora – w końcu wywołuje znużenie. W moim przypadku te osobiste rozprawy sprawiały, że się zacinałam i nie chciało mi się wracać do tej książki, przez co tygodniami zalegała nieprzeczytana.

Oczywiście miło było pobyć w świecie jeży i dowiedzieć się, jakie mają obyczaje, co im pomaga, co szkodzi i jaka jest ich rola w ekosystemie. Niemniej: przeczytałam w ostatnich dwóch latach sporo książek przyrodniczych i ta była zdecydowanie najsłabsza.

[Pawel Szymczak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeże - jak są ważne dla przyrody i dla ludzi. Świetnie napisana książka brytyjskiego popularyzatora jeży opisująca mnóstwo aspektów życia i interakcji jeży ze światem. Również, jak się to zmieniało od wieków.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

You’ll never come across anyone more enthusiastic about hedgehogs than Hugh Warwick. He believes that working for nature starts not with the intellect but with the heart: ‘falling in love’ with a particular species can lead you into a better relationship with the whole environment. A Prickly Affair tells of his 20 years spent working for hedgehog conservation. Though his writing perhaps lacks a certain poetic beauty (such as that found in Miriam Darlington’s Otter Country), his books are still a pleasure.

(This review formed part of an article about books for animal lovers on Bookkaholic.)

[Angie Drake · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a charming book about a charming creature... without being sickly! I have always loved hedgehogs but didn't know much about them. The author does a great job of teaching us about hedgehogs without sounding like a teacher. He shares lots of anecdotes about people and their interactions with hedgehogs and shares his own story of the hunt for the mysterious Hemiechinus hughi in China. By the end of the book, he ties the story of the hedgehog to that of humankind and reminds us that our actions are all that stand between the hedgehog and it's survival.

[Teri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having thoroughly enjoyed reading about the Wild Snail, and being a Miss Tiggywinkle fan, I thought I'd give another micro-zoology book a try. This has many charming moments, but the author does tend to wander around the subject, which is obviously dear to his heart. No doubt this is more fascinating for UK readers who may actually see a hedgehog since they do not inhabit the US other than as pets. Should I come across a hedgehog, I will certainly be more interested than I might otherwise have been.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is great fun, and quite revealing. As always it's the humans who come out the most bizarrely. There is something very engaging about someone who is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their subject, although without humour they can become a bore. Warwick manages to get the mix right in this book, which has a similar feel to William Bryant-Logan's "Dirt" (which was may favourite book of 2011). I will be looking out for these industrious and magical creatures with far greater vigilance from now on.

[Ron · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book failed to be either scientific enough or personal enough to be completely enjoyable. I was hoping for a little more hedgehog information, but since the author was British and seemed to assume he was writing for a British audience, it left out a lot that those of us who live in a hedgehog free country. And when the author attempts to become personally involved, he can't keep his scientific demeanor from his writing.

Also, a section of hedgehog pictures would have been very nice.

[Melody · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was charmed at first, but Warwick's too-too British dottiness began to wear on me before long. He went to China to get his photo taken with a hedgehog. Do I have to say more? I hoped it would get as cute at the end as it was in the beginning, but not so much. I liked his message about how to help hedgehogs stay wild, and help them thrive. I was less enamored of his eyebrow cocking at some of the odder human specimens who care for the rescued hogs.

[Elaine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Kind of a cute little book. It was clearly not edited for the US market. Very full of Britishisms. Apparently there's some badger name that represents all of badgerdom, for example. Bradley or something. I enjoyed the part set in China. I stumbled across this was I was searching my library site for The Elegance of the Hedgehog.

[Armelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything you wanted to know about the life and times of the hedgehog - and the people who love them.

This is actually a serious look at "the world's most charming mammal."

It's very interesting and easy to read. I recommend it.

[Ghostxbiscuit · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful read. Even if you're not already in love with our tiny spikey companions, this book will be a fun read for you.
It's entertaining, hilarious, sad, exciting and most of all full of passion for hedgehogs.