TESTIMONIALS
The unique work of a young and sensitive mind, Dev Shah’s well-illustrated book combines creativity with concern for India’s wildlife. Following the IUCN categorization of the conservation status of each species, his poetic message is an appeal embedded with hope for the future. This work will inspire and open ways to knowledge and exploration.
Dev Shah is the face of tomorrow. His text and images show that he understands what most adults do not… that alongside our threatened kin, we too are in the crosshairs of nature wronged.
Our ‘Threatened Kin -Fur, Feather & Fin’ is a gift that gives. Dev Shah has revealed himself to be a truly compassionate ally of fauna in India. Through clever yet poignant wordplay, incredibly detailed research and a burst of colours that enliven each artwork, Our Threatened Kin is a ready reckoner of endangered species in the country. That he is just 16 years old has meant that despite his wisdom and empathy beyond his years, Dev also has a wonderfully accurate grasp on how the minds of tweens, teens and young adults are poised to receive important information, making his verses and images so engaging for the young reader. My daughter Anika has always been an avid reader but ‘Our Threatened Kin’ has made her a compassionate, nature-loving one too.
When one reads Our Threatened Kin one clearly sees Dev’s love for wildlife. Aesthetic, so full of detail, covering all the endangered species, categorized so well and all this information rendered so poetically. This labour of love indicates the making of a conservationist who will surely make a difference. I am sure that his talks at various schools will ensure the entry of many youngsters into the battle to save our precious planet and its flora and fauna.
Dev, this brilliant contribution reminded me of an ancient shloka, ‘Purusha Suktam’ which highlights the importance of science, society and spirituality, and ‘Vasudeva Kutumbakam ’ – One world, one family, one health, one future. The world needs many more vigilantes like you.
Dev Shah is a young and talented writer. His book ‘Our Threatened Kin … ‘ is a treat for children. His love and knowledge of animals is visible through his writing and his interactions with our children of Campion School. Wishing him all the very best!
I found, that to learn about which animals are in danger of extinction, Dev Shah’s book is a perfect guide. And I love the illustrations! They take you on a journey through geography and imagination.
“ Dev’s collection of poems have been so thoughtfully put together with rhyme and wonderful illustrations. Soul-stirring and an inspiring read for everyone who wants to be an agent of change! His book is a lovely addition to our school library-just in time for Book Week.”
I was fascinated by ‘Our Threatened Kin’. It has taught a great deal about the endangered wildlife of India that I was previously unaware of and also motivated me to join the cause. What is remarkable is that this information and call to action is written entirely in rhyme which I found particularly enjoyable. I’m so glad these books are part of my school library for my fellow students to learn from.
I use photography to capture the beauty of wildlife before it is lost to us forever. ‘Our Threatened Kin’ does the same through words that are both moving and inspiring. I’m elated that a fellow teen has joined in this quest to preserve our valuable fauna. We need more such eco-warriors.