Ever since Charles Darwin visited there in 1835, the Galapagos have fascinated us like no other spot on Earth. This richly illustrated book captures the ethereal, haunting quality of the Galapagos and of the birds and animals that make these islands their home. Acclaimed wildlife photographer and writer Tui De Roy has spent her life exploring the Galapagos and recording their secrets. Here, in spectacular full-color images and in her own words, she shares her intimate knowledge of the islands and her deep love and respect for the natural wonders they conceal.
De Roy takes readers from vibrant coastlines to sheltered interiors, photographing penguins, turtles, and marine iguanas. She visits active volcanic calderas, where life hangs in the balance each time the volcano remakes itself. De Roy follows the seasons of the giant tortoise, dives into the twilight world of sperm whales and hammerhead sharks, and treads on still-steaming volcanic crust. She also makes an impassioned plea for conservation.
This updated tenth-anniversary edition of De Roy's celebrated book offers an unforgettable photographic tour of the Galapagos. Explore with her the incredible diversity of wildlife and habitats that rank these islands among the most fascinating and exotically beautiful places in the world. Galapagos: Islands Born of Fire features 245 stunning full-color photographs. It includes De Roy's insightful commentary. It showcases some of the award-winning photographer's finest work. It brings the natural wonders of the Galapagos to life.
Tui de Roy, world-renowned wildlife photgrapher, lived on the Galápagos from the age of two.For more than thirty-five years she has explored her island home and frequently returns there to visit her family and keep her photocollection up to date. She has won awards for her writing and was recently the subject of an Audubon Special one-hour TV documentary on her work in the Galápagos.
"[E]ngaging and inspirational [...] The author makes one appreciate the fragile beauty of the fiery isles."
– The Press
"The book is elegantly structured: each chapter emphasizes one distinct aspect of the Galapagos in the hope that by 'displaying visually the essence of its splendid wildness,' the volume can serve as an inspiration to ensure the survival of the islands' threatened animals."
– Scientific American
"In words and pictures, De Roy captures the ethereal, haunting quality of the islands with their cold seas and burning rocks."
– Ocean Realm