In the past decade it has often seemed that the only feature of South Africa's Robben Island not to be examined in minute detail is its wildlife. This imbalance has been redressed by the publication of this slender volume which looks at the environment of an island best known for its prisoners. The island supports 23 species of mammals (including European fallow deer, more than 250 steenbok, as well as bontebok, eland and springbok) 21 species of reptiles, and an impressive 144 bird species. Robben Island is one of the best places to see the endemic African Penguin. If you've never visited the island, don't go without this guide; if you've been before, go again and discover life beyond the prison walls.