David Blissett

Lou Grossfeldt

Amanka is a word from one of the languages used by people living in the rural north west of Uganda. It’s a beautiful, rich word that means ‘family’. Yet, in the forests and villages of this part of Uganda – and across much of tropical Africa and Asia – families are at war. In the narrowing margins between forest and farm, human and non-human, there is a growing conflict. A deadly conflict. The Amanka Book Project has been coordinated by writer, David Blissett and primate curator, Lou Grossfeldt. They celebrate our closest living relatives, by sharing the stories and experiences of the people who are working, fighting, and sometimes risking their lives to save them. The focus is on all ape species (gorilla, orangutan, chimpanzee, bonobo and the gibbon family). These are stories of sacrifice and courage and hope; tears and happiness; love and loss. In each chapter, Lou and David speak with people who devote their lives to the conservation and wellbeing of the apes. This includes scientists, researchers, caregivers, vets, filmmakers and conservation advocates. Many of the stories in this book have never been told before and will give readers a direct insight into the day-to-day heartaches, challenges and joys of working with these intelligent, sentient beings. ‘We wrote this book to raise awareness of the plight of our ape family and to share the stories of the unsung heroes who are trying to help them. All contributors have donated to this project and profits from book sales will be donated to various ape conservation and enrichment programs or projects’ - Lou Grossfeldt and David Blissett.

Saving the Last Apes

Amanka Stories

Tony Harrison

Tony Harrison has lived the life of a professional snake catcher for twenty years. In this book, he introduces you to the reptiles most commonly encountered in our cities and towns, including some of the most venomous snakes on earth. Tony has spent his whole life surrounded by reptiles. His work and his animals are regularly featured on TV and in movies. That means he has a tale or two to tell. In Snake Catcher, Tony shares entertaining and informative stories, written by award-winning Australian writer, David Blissett. You are part of the action as Tony enters a suburban bedroom to bag a large and lethal Eastern Brown Snake. You will meet Tiger, the Lace Monitor who is afraid of heights. And you will find out what happens when you try to flush a venomous snake down the toilet. However, more than telling great stories and showing great pictures, this book has another purpose. Tony wants to dispel the myth that 'the only good snake is a dead snake.' He shares his insights into some truly fascinating reptiles, and gives common-sense advice about living safely with them.Snake Catcher includes information on:* The most commonly encountered Australian reptiles, complete with stunning full-colour photos.* What to do if you encounter a snake at home or in the bush.* How to discourage dangerous snakes from entering your property.* The benefits of having some snake species living nearby.* How to treat a snake bite.* How to protect your pets from run-ins with snakes.* Some of the rules about keeping reptiles for yourself.

David Blissett

Books

Your next favorite book is out there