I haven't enjoyed a book on remote Russia as much as this since Ian Frazier's Travels in Siberia - Sophy Roberts, author of The Lost Pianos of Siberia A vivid dispatch from the front line of conservation, Owls of the Eastern Ice is engrossing and uplifting an inspiring story of vital work undertaken with utter determination in wild and distant places. Above all, he makes the people, wildlife and landscape of the Russian Far East come alive for armchair travellers. Charles Foster, author of Being a Beast Slaght's story reveals the patience and determination of a true conservationist. A powerful, passionate and highly readable reflection on the wildness both inside us and out there in the forest. Christopher Skaife, author of The Ravenmaster True epic. * Kirkus * A fascinating account of one man's quest to conserve the magnificent fish owl of Eastern Asia, this is a book that feels both urgent and relevant. Top-notch nature writing in service of a magnificent, vulnerable creature. The cast of characters he brings to life - both human and avian - illuminate the delicate symbiosis of the natural world and shed a welcome light on the remarkable creatures that are too little known. * Publishers Weekly * From the very first pages, Slaght grips readers with vivid language and tight storytelling. Readers will be drawn to this exciting chronicle of science and adventure, a demonstration that wilderness can still be found. Slaght evinces humor, tirelessness, and dedication in relating the hard and crucial work of conservation. Will make armchair and keyboard conservationists envious and uncomfortable in equal measures - John Gray, The International Owl Society A detailed and thrilling account of efforts to conserve an endangered species.

The Times Nature Book of the Year A thoroughly engaging read which will appeal both to those specifically interested in owls, as well as those with a wider interest in the natural world. It is a powerful antidote to saccharine nature writing Slaght encounters such a host of pickled gritty characters that you could imagine the Coen brothers adapting it for the screen. It is a superb depiction of a far-flung corner of the world where bears, tigers and men battle with relentless environment and each other.

This is an epic tale of hangovers, violence and obsessive ornithology.

Owls of the eastern ice review