Vanished: An Unnatural History of Extinction by

Vanished delves into the origins of the concept of extinction, showing how it evolved from a theological dilemma to a scientific reality in the age of revolutions. The book highlights the political implications of extinction, particularly how it was used to justify imperial expansion and genocide, and explores the devastating consequences of this ideology. Through pioneering research and compelling storytelling, author Sadiah Qureshi illustrates that extinction is both a natural process and a human act, one that has profoundly influenced our past and may determine our future. This thought-provoking work challenges readers to reconsider the interconnectedness of science, politics, and history.

Reviews

FiveBooks · 2025-10-20

compelling 4.20

The book documents revelations that made people rethink their relationship with the environment, presented in a compelling and compassionate way.

FiveBooks highlights how the author documents findings that have significantly impacted people's views on the environment. They praise the book's compelling and compassionate approach, which makes it a vital read for anyone interested in the history of extinction. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to present complex information in an accessible manner, making it both informative and engaging. They also note the book's emotional depth, which adds to its overall impact.

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Those findings were revelations that made people rethink their relationship with the environment.

She documents this in a compelling and very compassionate way.

The book's emotional depth adds to its overall impact.

Forbes · GrrlScientist · 2025-10-02

compelling 4.00

The book documents the terrible acts humans have inflicted on animals and plants, making it a dark yet compelling read. It highlights the interconnectedness of extinction, politics, and philosophy.

GrrlScientist from Forbes delves into the grim realities of human impact on species extinction, making this book a dark but essential read. They appreciate the thorough documentation of historical and political dimensions, which adds depth to the narrative. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of extinction's philosophical implications particularly thought-provoking, despite its somber tone. They also note the book's ability to balance detailed research with a compelling narrative, making it accessible and engaging. Overall, it's a poignant and necessary exploration of a critical issue.

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Overall, this is a dark book in many ways as it documents some of the many terrible acts that humans have done to animals and plants as well as ...

It highlights the interconnectedness of extinction, politics, and philosophy.

The book's ability to balance detailed research with a compelling narrative makes it accessible and engaging.

The Guardian · 2025-06-11

insightful 4.50

The book picks apart the political and philosophical dimensions of species loss, offering a poignant and compassionate exploration.

The Guardian's review highlights how the book deftly navigates the complex interplay between extinction, empire, and colonialism. They commend the author's ability to present a poignant and compassionate exploration of species loss, making it a deeply moving read. The reviewer also appreciates the book's academic rigor, which is balanced with a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. They find the book's exploration of the historical and political dimensions of extinction particularly insightful.

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In her new book, Vanished, the history professor picks apart the political and philosophical dimensions of species loss.

A poignant, compassionate exploration of the historical and political dimensions of extinction.

The book's academic rigor is balanced with a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Appears in Lists

The Best Popular Science Books of 2025: The Royal Society Book Prize