The eighth continent : life, death, and discovery in the lost world of Madagascar

Since the age of dinosaurs, Madagascar has thrived in isolation off the east coast of Africa, evolving hundreds of unique animal and plant species, most famously lemurs. This "lost world" features striking geography, from soaring mountains to tropical rain forests and spiny deserts. Its people present a fascinating puzzle, with obscure origins, a complex language, and intriguing beliefs. In this exploration, Peter Tyson guides readers through this exotic frontier, often referred to as "the naturalist's promised land." The narrative blends scientific exploration, adventure, and cultural history as Tyson journeys with four experts: a herpetologist who has discovered numerous Malagasy species; a paleoecologist investigating the extinction of the island's megafauna; an archaeologist exploring the origins of the Malagasy people; and a primatologist studying elusive lemurs while striving to prevent ecological destruction. Madagascar's rich biodiversity is under threat as the local population relies on its dwindling forests for survival. This precarious situation raises the urgent question: Can Madagascar be saved? Tyson navigates this complex landscape, delving into the island's storied interior and its misty past, offering insights into its unique environment and the challenges it faces.