Danielle is the author of several narrative non-fiction books. Her abiding interest in natural history and the sea, apparent in all her writing, stems from growing up on a boat. Having studied zoology at university, her work frequently explores the relationship between humanity and the natural world.
The narrative highlights the contrasting endeavors of British soldiers and settlers in colonizing Australia alongside the French scientists who explored its coastlines. These scientists dedicated themselves to studying the unique flora and fauna of the continent, showcasing a rich tapestry of exploration and discovery during a pivotal period in Australian history. The book delves into the interactions and impacts of these two groups, emphasizing the significance of scientific inquiry amidst colonial expansion.
Age range 9+ John Albert Long is an Australian paleontologist who is currently Strategic Professor in Palaeontology at Flinders University in Adelaide, South Australia. He was previously the Vice President of Research and Collections at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. He is also an author of popular science books. His main area of research is on the fossil fish of the Late Devonian Gogo Formation from northern Western Australia. It has yielded many important insights into fish evolution, such as Gogonasus and Materpiscis, the later specimen being crucial to our understanding of the origins of vertebrate reproduction. His love of fossil collecting began at age 7 and he graduated with PhD from Monash University in 1984, specialising in Palaeozoic fish evolution. He held postdoctoral positions at the Australian National University, The University of Western Australia and The University of Tasmania before taking up a position as Curator in Vertebrate Palaeontology at the Western Australian Museum and then as Head of Sciences at Museum Victoria.
Exploring the profound impact of fire on Australia's landscape and its people, this book delves into the historical and ongoing challenges posed by bushfires. It examines the interplay between climate change and fire management, highlighting the limitations of current prevention and prediction methods. The narrative raises critical questions about future strategies to protect lives and homes from devastating events like Ash Wednesday and Black Saturday, urging a reevaluation of our approaches to living with fire.
The narrative intertwines personal natural history tales with the experiences of scientists at Museum Victoria, highlighting their unique contributions and discoveries. Each story reveals insights into the natural world while showcasing the passion and dedication of the scientists involved. This exploration not only celebrates scientific inquiry but also emphasizes the interconnectedness of human experiences and the environment.
