Every Sunday we are taking a look at the world of books. I read a lot and always want to share my opinions on what I read, so I thought it would be fun to write reviews. Today we are looking at a book about the Galapagos.

My Family and the Galapagos (2021)

Monty Hall

Synopsis

The Galapagos Islands have captured hearts and captivated imaginations for centuries. Such is their ecological importance that in 1978 the archipelago was declared the first ever World Heritage Site, a testament to our collective desire to preserve the magic and diversity that inspired Darwin. Monty Halls first visited the islands almost twenty years ago and his immediate fascination with their wild beauty would go on to shape the rest of his life.

As an explorer, marine biologist, ex-Royal Marine and now President of the Galapagos Conservation Trust, Monty is a passionate advocate for those fighting to save the Galapagos. In 2017, he and his dedicated research team – his wife, Tam, and their two young daughters, Molly and Isla – moved to Santa Cruz to experience just what life is like in the world’s most spectacular tourist destination. As weeks turned into months, the Halls family were in turn spellbound by the beauty of the islands and heartbroken by the devastation that humans are inflicting upon them. One stint there was never going to be enough, and just two years later they found themselves heading back, this time staying on one of the remotest and most challenging islands, diving into the culture of the Galapagos and the desperately needed conservation work taking place there.

– from Waterstones

Positive Points

This book is really insightful as it gives you an in depth history and look at the Galapagos as well as delving into the experiences that Monty has with his family. Throughout the book there is much detail about the area and also there are some interesting tales about the times that he was there with his family and the things that they did to help with the conservation.

Negative Points

The book is divided up into three sections but as you read the book you find that it can actually ruin the pace of the narrative. I wasn’t expecting part three to pop up as soon as it did and it really ruined the reading experience as it felt like that particular visit was not finished.

Overall Review

I found that this book was an interesting read and made me more aware of the animals and conservation happening on the Galapagos however I found that the way it was written at times a bit off putting in the reading experience.

Rating : *** 3 Stars