When northern Kenyans find elephant bones, they lay down blossoms and branches as a mark of respect, honouring their crucial connection with the wildlife they live alongside. In our changing world, these values are vitally important.
For decades, northern Kenya was one step away from a warzone, on the frontlines of climate change and habitat loss. People slept with their shoes on, fearing attack. Wildlife was decimated. Yet, facing the most extreme challenges, people united. What began as a last-ditch effort to save rhinos from extinction sparked a remarkable return of wildlife, with the once-struggling cattle ranch Lewa named a UN World Heritage Site for its outstanding value to humanity. This served as a catalyst for much broader action. Communities created a network of protected lands across an area larger than Switzerland. Through conservation, they built peace, driving social, environmental and political change.
From tracking elephants through the bush to gun battles with bandits and treks through Al-Qaeda territory, Peter Martell tells the exciting story of a conservation movement that gives hope. At a time when humanity is reassessing its broken relationship with nature, these communities offer an inspirational blueprint, proving that environmental change does not have to divide, but can bring us together.
'Flowers for Elephants brings to life the extraordinary coexistence and resilience of nature and people in Kenya's Northern territories over the past four decades. Martell's prose captures this intriguing true story, a must-read for those seeking to understand more about this wonderful but troubled part of the world.' - The Rt Hon. Francis Ole Kaparo, former Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya
'A compelling story of how the power of connecting with wildlife can strengthen communities. A must-read for anyone with a love for elephants.' - Major Levison Wood FRGS, British Army officer, explorer, and author of Walking the Nile and The Last Giants
