Ryno Joubert, a social sciences teacher at Gekombineerde Skool Noorderlig, has published a book entitled The Knysna Elephants: A Journey to the Last Forest Giants.

With a deep passion for South Africa’s natural heritage and wildlife, Ryno began researching and writing the book in 2018.

“Teaching social sciences and working with learners is also among my greatest passions, as I enjoy helping young people understand the past and develop an appreciation for the world around them.”

What started as a personal interest in the remarkable history of South Africa’s Knysna elephants gradually developed into a long-term research project that eventually became a published book.

“Over the years, I studied historical documents, scientific research, personal interviews and first-hand accounts to piece together the story of these extraordinary animals.”

The journey required countless hours of dedication, with many late nights spent researching, writing and working on the manuscript, sometimes continuing into the early hours of the morning.

“It was truly a labour of love, driven by my passion for history, nature and the preservation of South Africa’s natural heritage.”

Ryno said his achievement to publishing would not have been possible without the support of his wife and parents, whose encouragement and patience carried him through the long process.

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“Above all, I am deeply grateful for the blessing and guidance of our Lord Jesus Christ. Without their support and His grace, this dream would not have become a reality.”

The book explores how elephants once ranged widely across the Cape before hunting, habitat loss and human expansion gradually pushed the surviving population into the Knysna and Tsitsikamma forests.

It examines the decline of the population and the story of the last known surviving Knysna elephant, known as Strangefoot or Oupoot.

The Knysna elephants are African savanna elephants, the same species found in the Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park.

“Their story is particularly fascinating because of the way they survived in the indigenous forests and fynbos of the southern Cape. Their history forms an important part of South Africa’s natural heritage and reminds us of the lasting impact human activity can have on wildlife and the environment,” Ryno said.

“I believe the story may resonate with readers who value education, perseverance, family support, faith, history and environmental conservation.

“I hope my book will encourage readers, especially younger generations, to discover lesser-known aspects of South Africa’s past and develop a deeper appreciation for our natural environment. I believe that understanding our history and protecting our natural heritage go hand in hand.”

The book is now available in paperback and e-book formats through several online retailers:
• Amazon paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Knysna-Elephants-Journey-Forest-Giants-ebook/dp/1991531966/
• Amazon Kindle e-book: https://www.amazon.com/Knysna-Elephants-Journey-Forest-Giants-ebook/dp/B0HN4JNH5N/
• Takealot: https://www.takealot.com/the-knysna-elephants/PLID104062516
• International e-book retailers: https://books2read.com/knysnaelephantsbook

COMPETITION! ENTER NOW!

Boksburg Advertiser and the author Ryno Joubert are giving away two e-book copies of The Knysna Elephants: A Journey to the Last Forest Giants.
To enter, simply send your name and contact details with ELEPHANTS in the subject line to boksburgadvertiser@caxton.co.za.
Competition closes on November 13.
The winners will be notified by email.

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