Darkness is Light Enough: The Field Journal of a Night Naturalist

Chris Ferris (a nom de plume) is very possibly Britain's best naturalist writer. This book distills four years of her experience as observer and, eventually, protectress of the wildlife in the woods near her English country home. As she becomes closer to the badgers, owls and foxes -- many of which develop an extraordinary trust in her -- Ferris also has several dangerous run-ins with badger-diggers and lampers, leading eventually to threats against her life.Most memorable, however, are Ferris's vivid and detailed descriptions of the forest creatures for whom she has such tremendous fellow feeling -- especially the vulnerable badgers whose national champion she eventually becomes. The author's gentle humanity, her affection for these animals and her grief when they are harmed by predatory humankind, is palpable and very moving.Written by the most courageous yet unassuming of heroines, and sensitively illustrated by artist William Geldart, "The Darkness ! is Light Enough" is simply the most touching, inspiring, AFFECTING wildlife diary I have ever read. Indeed, I've had to buy it several times, as I keep lending my own copy to others (and usually have trouble getting it back). It's hard to praise it too highly!