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July 14, 2025 15 mins

Part 1 Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams Summary

"Last Chance to See" is a nonfiction book by Douglas Adams, co-authored with zoologist Mark Carwardine, published in 1990. The book chronicles their travels across the globe to visit endangered species and their habitats, highlighting the conservation crisis faced by many animals and the environments they inhabit.

The narrative is infused with Adams's trademark humor and wit, as he shares the adventures and challenges of encountering species on the brink of extinction, such as the kakapo parrot in New Zealand, the California condor, and the rare Sumatran rhinoceros. The duo's trips take them to remote locations, presenting not only the unique wildlife but also the cultures and conservation efforts surrounding these species.

Throughout the book, Adams reflects on the profound connection between humans and the natural world, urging readers to be more mindful of the impact of modern society on the environment. He emphasizes the importance of protecting these creatures not just for their sake, but for the health of the planet as a whole. Adams's blend of humor, eloquence, and poignant observations makes "Last Chance to See" both an entertaining and thought-provoking read, raising awareness about conservation and the urgency of saving endangered species.

Part 2 Last Chance to See Author

Douglas Adams was an English author, humorist, and dramatist, best known for his science fiction series "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy." He was born on March 11, 1952, and passed away on May 11, 2001.

Last Chance to See

"Last Chance to See" was released in 1990. It is a non-fiction book chronicling Douglas Adams's travels with zoologist Mark Carwardine as they seek out endangered species around the world. The book highlights the plight of these species while combining Adams's wit and humor with serious conservation issues.

Other Notable Works

In addition to "Last Chance to See," Douglas Adams is well-known for several other works:

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Series

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (1979)

The Restaurant at the End of the Universe (1980)

Life, the Universe and Everything (1982)

So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish (1984)

Mostly Harmless (1992)

The Salmon of Doubt (2002, posthumously published)

Dirk Gently Series

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency (1987)

The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul (1988)

Screenplays and Radio

Adams was involved in many adaptations of his work for radio, television, and film, most famously the radio series and the BBC TV series of "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy."

Best Editions

In terms of editions, the best of Douglas Adams's works can often be subjective. However, the following editions are particularly well-regarded:

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Complete Collection This compilation often comes in a slipcase format, gathering all five novels of the original series and sometimes includes additional content or illustrations.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (30th Anniversary Edition) This special edition includes new illustrations and annotations, appealing to both new readers and long-time fans.

Last Chance to See (30th Anniversary Edition) The 2020 edition includes a new introduction by Mark Carwardine and is praised for its rich illustrations and updates on the species discussed in the original.

Overall, Douglas Adams's unique blend of humor and science fiction has cemented his legacy in literature, making his books widely celebrated and enduringly popular.

Part 3 Last Chance to See Chapters

Overall Theme:

"Last Chance to See" by Douglas Adams explores themes of conservation, the fragility of the environment, and the importance of biodiversity. The book highlights the urgency of protecting...

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