The moment we read Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant’s book, we knew her story was singular, and that she would serve as a wonderful, inspirational model of Black Excellence for so many. Wild Life is written with passion, honesty, and hope. A contribution like this is long overdue.”
- John Legend, Mike Jackson, and Ty Stiklorius, Get Lifted Books
In this vulnerable and urgent memoir, Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant explores the ever-shifting relationship between humans, animals, and the earth through her personal journey to becoming a wildlife ecologist.
ISBN
9781638930402
Language
English
Page count
288
Edition
Hardcover
Sale date
April 2, 2024
Dimensions
6 x 9
About the Book
Growing up in the diverse and bustling California Bay Area, renowned wildlife ecologist Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant always felt worlds away from the white male adventurers she watched explore the wilderness on TV. She dreamed of a future where she could spend sleepless nights under the crowded canopies of the Amazon and the starry skies of the savanna. But as Rae set off on her own expeditions in the wild, she saw nature’s delicate balance in a new light.
Wild Life follows Rae on her adventures and explorations in some of the world’s most remote locales. Hers is a story about a nearly twenty-year career in the wild—carving a niche as one of very few Black female scientists—and the challenges she had to overcome, expectations she had to leave behind, and the many lessons she learned along the way. An incredible journey spanning the Great Plains of North America to the rainforests of Madagascar, Wild Life sheds light on our pivotal relationship and responsibility to the natural world and the relatives—both human and otherwise—that we share it with.
Reviews
“As she shares her adventures, Wynn-Grant encourages readers to learn about and honor Earth’s ecosystems and reveals what it truly means to follow your calling wherever the work may take you. She addresses insecurity and shame as well as self-discovery, perseverance, and finding the courage to face your fears. This is a must-read for women of color and all who care about the environment and the pursuit of science.”
“A wildlife ecologist takes us on a journey of ambition, discovery, and inner acceptance. . .This isn’t simply a nature book or memoir, but a memorable marriage of the two that will leave readers inspired.”
“[A] poignant debut… Wynn-Grant’s passion and tenacity are on full display, elevating the narrative from travelogue to stirring underdog story. It’s an adventure worth taking.”
“As sensitive and touching as it is urgent,…[Wild Life is] a poignant exploration of the natural world.”
“The moment we read this book, we knew Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant’s story was singular, and that she would serve as a wonderful, inspirational model of Black Excellence for so many. Wild Life is written with passion, honesty, and hope. A contribution like this is long overdue.”
“Wildlife ecologist Wynn-Grant recalls nearly two decades of adventures across the globe, always sharing the obstacles she encountered and how she was able to overcome them. As a Black female scientist, Wynn-Grant serves as an inspiration for future generations.”
“Wild Life is the bushwacking, honest, and inspiring memoir I wish I’d had as a budding scientist. Dr. Wynn-Grant’s richly-told, revelatory journey will surely have remarkable ripples for generations—and have you on the edge of your seat.”
“This is a necessary read. Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant is transforming the environmental media landscape to center equity and inclusion while empowering the next generation of Black women to turn to STEM”
“On paper and in real life Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant lifts as she climbs, opening the door for the next generation of environmental leaders of color. Wild Life is a stunning testimony of a woman who, against all odds, persevered and remained grounded in her commitment to chasing her dreams and fearlessly advocating for both people and the planet. It’s a must-read for the next generation of leaders seeking a reminder that against all odds, we can and will overcome.”
Rae Wynn-Grant
Rae Wynn-Grant is a wildlife ecologist with an expertise in uncovering how human activity influences carnivore behavior and ecology. She received her BS in environmental studies from Emory University, her MS in environmental studies from Yale University, and her PhD in ecology and evolution from Columbia University. She is a Research Fellow with the National Geographic Society, with whom she has appeared on a variety of televised nature programs and for whom she’s currently on a 20-city speaking tour as part of Nat Geo Live. She serves on The North Face’s Explore Fund Council, co-hosts Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild on NBC, hosts the podcast Going Wild with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, produced by PBS, and has been featured in Vogue, Forbes, the New York Times, and the Los Angeles Times, among many others. She lives in California.
