by Julie-anne M Edwards There have been many books written lately on people's exploits and work with nature, wildlife and conservation, but few from somebody who has dedicated their lives and achieved as much as Julie Anne M Edwards.

One of the two young girls that cycled from Glasgow in Scotland to Harare, Zimbabwe, to raise funds and an awareness of rhino, this book doesn't fall into one single category as it not only covers this trip, and another on horseback, but also gives information on animals and places, explains the intricacies of becoming a professional guide - especially in the days when that was so unusual for a girl! - and documents her anguish at the downfall of wildlife protection due to politics in Zimbabwe.

We felt that much more could have been made of Julie Anne's book HOKOYO : SILENT SPOORS AND PARTING BLADES. There is so much of interest in this book that could, and should, have been expanded on. The superb photographs lost some of their impact being in black and white, and a little more detail as to how and why Julie Anne and her friend, Charlene Hewitt, undertook such a daunting ride in the early 1980s would have been welcomed.

The late George Adamson, that wonderful "Lion Man" wrote to Julie Anne

"This short note is just to let you know how much pleasure and hope your brief visit to Kora has brought to me. Keep up your magnificent efforts for the conservation of all wildlife. With much love and my utmost respect."

Your old friend (ancient)

George Adamson.

HOKOYO means, "watch out". This book is an appeal from the animals; Julie Anne is their voice.

Published by Plains of Africa Safaris,

ISBN 9 780620 397414