Aeron Clement (1936–1989)

Let's be clear from the start that this book is not at all twee. It's a beautiful story written from the point of view of the badgers about their persecution by man. The tale is set in Wales, where a large community of badgers has been living in idyllic surroundings for many of their generations. Now men are coming to destroy them, claiming that they pass TB to cattle. The story starts with Bamber and Dainty; while Bamber is out foraging for his wife and new babies, men come and kill his little family. Bamber sets off to warn other badgers and takes a hard journey. He succeeds in reaching another community and telling them of the danger to come, after which he dies. His warning is swiftly followed by the arrival of men who start closing up the entrances to the setts so the badger community sets off on an epic journey to find another home. The courage and determination they show is recognised by the public who begin to protest against their destruction. This is a tale that should be read by everyone; we all need to recognise our own place in the scheme of things, as well as that of other creatures. It really is a compelling story.… (meer)