Through a diligent yet sparkling, multifaceted biography, award-winning journalist Franklin evokes the charisma and commitment of this titan of both commercial and conservation realms.
A Wild Idea outlines the controversies surrounding Tompkins’s crusade. Still, Franklin could have offered a more nuanced (and better sourced) consideration of the white man’s burden that Tompkins carried in South America.
The great strengths of this timely, well-researched book lie not just in the author’s detailed characterization of Tompkins’ complex personality, but also in the celebration of his singularly dynamic crusade to save the environment. A satisfyingly heartfelt tribute to a thoroughly remarkable man.
