Namibian Metaphor Author: Loisa Ogry Nakanuku By Matthew Gowaseb The author offers unparalleled insights into the area of bio-diversity and tourism. In compiling the record, the author drew on personal experience, public sources and on academic writing, creating an account of particular authority and personal insight. This commendable work will serve as a source for all Namibians, tourists, academics, students and everyone else involved in environmental issues to learn more about the stark contrasts of Namibia’s environment. It will also help to bolster the understanding of the importance of biodiversity The author argues, through pictures and narrative, that what we have lost is our ability to dream, to project ourselves onto the future. This calls for an analysis of why we have become tired of dreaming. She looks at various dimensions involving tourism and bio-diversity as a way to say this is where we went wrong and this is where we can make changes. The underlying question is the meaning of balanced utilization of natural resources whilst conserving our environment. The author, in essence, looks at the twin questions of bio-diversity and tourism and suggests that we need to strike a careful balance if we are to leave behind a legacy for our children. “Namibian Metaphors” communicates the need for a dialogue that is at once radical, honest, and most importantly a dialogue that wants to project itself onto the future by way of balanced utilization of our natural resources. This essential booklet could be described as vivid, graphic and rich in imagery and scents. It mirrors the scenic beauty of a country of great contrasts. Throughout this important work, I sense moments of hope and love, but these are almost entirely extinguished by harsh conditions and the imbalance within nature, environment and society. At the end, the author offers us some sort of tentative hope as reflected through her poem at the back of the book. It is not an exaggeration to say that the author advances sophisticated arguments that is substantiated by practical examples and statistics. She also looks into the existing problems in the area of bio-diversity and tourism and advances an unbiased analysis. This book, however, is not only for those who seek knowledge; it is also a good read for those to whom the environmental issues is – and may remain – a mystery. In short: It is a book for young and old; for the cognoscenti and for the layperson. This exciting publication is available from Emgee’s Bookstore as well as from other progressive bookstores.