Silent Earth

Silent Earth by Dave Goulson is an urgent and compelling work that seamlessly blends popular science with environmental activism. It invites readers into an intricate world often overlooked—the realm of insects—and urges a new perspective on the interdependent relationship between humans and these small, yet mighty creatures. Goulson, a renowned biologist and conservationist, shares a wealth of research and personal anecdotes to illuminate the crucial roles insects play in sustaining life on Earth. The narrative is a harmonious mix of a love letter to the insect world, an elegy for those already lost, and a rousing manifesto for immediate change.

Over the past few decades, insect populations have faced a precipitous decline. Goulson presents alarming data and personal reflections to chart this unsettling trend, exploring the myriad ways in which the disappearance of these tiny titans would disrupt ecosystems and human life. From pollination to natural pest control, insects are irreplaceable cogs in the machinery of nature.

Goulson offers eye-opening insights and is not content merely to lament the state of the world; he also calls his readers to action. Through practical advice and inspiring examples, Silent Earth serves as a clarion call for conservation at both individual and systemic levels. The book insists on the necessity of coexistence with nature, starting with protecting and nurturing our six-legged friends. It’s a plea for transformation in attitudes and behaviours towards the environment, pushing for sustainable practices that can halt and reverse the current trends.

Recognised for its impactful content, Silent Earth has garnered widespread acclaim, becoming a Sunday Times bestseller and being shortlisted for the prestigious Wainwright Prize 2022. Critics and readers alike have been moved by Goulson’s evocative and meticulously researched writing.

"Compelling, penetrating, devastating – Silent Earth is a wake-up call for the world." – Isabella Tree, author of Wilding

"Read this book, then look and wonder." – Sunday Times

Silent Earth is more than just a book; it’s an invitation to see the world anew and a testament to the profound impact one species can have on the entirety of life on Earth. Whether you’re a seasoned environmentalist or new to the subject, this book promises to change the way you see and interact with the natural world.