Shark: Why we need to save the world’s most misunderstood predator – for Shark Week, Seaspiracy and conservation fans

by Paul de Gelder

From shark attack survivor to the shark’s biggest advocate, Paul de Gelder tells us just why these majestic diverse animals need our help as much as we need them. Something happens to you the first time you dive with sharks… We have a perennial fascination with sharks. Portrayed in the media and popular culture as killing machines, we are awed by their power and strength. But the shark is so much more – a marvel of the sea, they have evolved over 450 million years into over 500 species, from the bioluminescent kitefin to the tiny dwarf lantern shark, the sociable lemon shark to the cow shark, which can birth up to 100 pups in one litter. Bringing balance to the ocean’s ecosystem, our planet is at serious risk when these amazing creatures are threatened. Paul de Gelder, who lost two limbs in a shark attack during a mission as an elite Australian navy clearance diver, spent time as part of his recovery learning all about sharks. He became so obsessed that, despite what happened to him, he is now an expert and has dedicated his life to helping save them. Shark is his love-letter to these unfairly vilified animals, and his warning to the world about what will happen if we don’t look out for them.

Genres: Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

Published October 24, 2023

About the author

From rebel, drug dealer and strip club worker to adventurer, soldier, fitness enthusiast, Navy diver, shark attack survivor, top motivational speaker and mentor to schoolkids across Australia, Paul de Gelder is an exceptional young man. He is now determined to carve out the best future for himself he could possibly imagine. Paul is a true survivor and an incredible inspiration.

Reviews

[Katie McNulty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging, compelling and informative. This book will challenge your fears of sharks and show how vital it is we protect them. We should all be ocean activists.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I saw this book in the library and it looked really interesting. The author was attacked many years ago by a bull shark and lost his leg and hand in the attack. Since then, he has devoted his life to researching sharks of all different sizes. The author tells us not only his story, but lots of facts, figures and information about the multitude of different sharks that patrol our oceans and seas.

I’ve heard of some of the sharks mentioned, the most obviously being the Great White, thanks to Hollywood and Jaws! I never realised though how many different types there were, and whilst you always imagine sharks to be maneaters I was surprised to read of tiny sharks that would fit in the palm of your hand! Coupled with this is the author’s own experiences and his tireless work in the preservation of them.

A fact-filled book, with some eye-opening sections. There are some photos within the book to give a picture of the sharks you’re reading about, and whilst only a small number of the different types of sharks are mentioned, there is still plenty to keep you reading throughout. Would they still frighten me if I ever saw that fin gliding through the water? Do I still need a bigger boat? Of course, but I do have a healthier respect for all things sharklike! Really interesting book, would recommend.

[Lani Tice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book. As a surfer i’ve always had a fascination with sharks, but could never pin point if this fascination was out of fear or pure curiosity for the animal. After reading this book, there’s a quote that stuck with me, that the ocean is just a primal fear of the unknown. A world in which we are not built to survive. But sharks sure are! i’m in awe of how insanely geared the fish is as a predator, the statistics on attacks, and how many different sharks are in the ocean. Really fun and interesting read. Highly recommend!

[CaitlinAM · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this!! I learnt a lot of new and interesting facts. Like how shark cages were only invented in the 1980s and they were invented by spear fishermen. That’s crazy!!

Very informative
Very passionate
An incredible, educative book.

[Robin Boyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very insightful into an overview of sharks and conservation for such a remarkable animal. A must-read for shark lovers 🦈

[Vikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

everyone needs to read this!