Platypuses, possums, wombats, etc: Australia has some truly astonishing mammals with incredible, unfamiliar features. But how does the world regard these creatures? And what does that mean for their conservation? Here, naturalist Jack Ashby shares his love for these often-misunderstood animals.He not only explains the extraordinary lives of these animals, but the historical mysteries surrounding them and the myths that persist (especially about the platypus). He also reveals the toll these myths can take. Important, timely and written with humour and wisdom, this celebration of Australian wildlife will open eyes and change minds about how we contemplate and interact with the natural world - everywhere.