We asked conservation researchers to send us their best papers of 2024. They surprised us with some powerful and important science.

This year brought essential reading on climate change, endangered species, ecology, environmental justice, and other important topics about protecting the planet.

Our latest group of reviews showcases books that remind us about what we’re saving — and why we do it.

Journals this month looked at “fabulous but forgotten” ecosystems, hungry monkeys, roaming lions, lead-poisoned birds, and more — including a focus on microplastics.

Whether they’re primers on environmental activism or a series on resisting autocrats, these books offer a chance to study up for the bumpy years ahead.

Damage is coming soon, but we can strengthen ourselves now.

Plus a spotlight on leopards, the risks to primates, the link between bats and chocolate, otter taste buds, and a whole lot more.

China’s Great Sparrow Campaign aimed to “conquer nature” but resulted in as many as 75 million human deaths.

The season brings important new books by climate scientists, conservationists, activists, and novelists.

Journalists and activists should focus on these three linked problems, says the acclaimed author, who also encourages us to talk about hope.