Wildlife - the southern hemisphere

This book introduces a novel approach to wildlife literature. Well-known illustrator and children’s book author Dieter Braun has spent years travelling the world to watch wildlife close up and study animal behaviour. The idea for the project originated in 2006 when Braun first visited the Hatari Lodge in Tanzania. Extended trips to Asia, Africa and North America followed, culminating in a four-month stay in Australia. Braun is the first illustrator to offer such unerring insights into the fascinating world of animals – this thanks to his unique blend of observational skill, innovative storytelling style and a distinctive brand of humour. This first volume of two, dedicated to the wildlife of the southern hemisphere, brings together a stupendous collection of illustrations in bright, vibrant colour. It includes virtuoso, true-to-life portrait drawings of animals: from Africa – the giraffe, gorilla and rhinoceros; from South America – the cocatoo, anteater and jaguar; and from Australia – the kangaroo, wombat and koala. The text that accompanies the striking images is compelling and entertaining. Although Braun’s drawings recall Old Master prints they are digitally generated. He works with a vector editor and Photoshop integrating elements of original artwork. The fine graphic design, draughtsmanship and love of detail that have gone into this book make it a remarkable achievement from start to finish. It could well become a classic.