On Sunday, September 14, 2025, readers, conservationists, and wildlife enthusiasts from across the globe tuned in for a special Fireside Chat with Tony Park, hosted by journalist and presenter Ben Coley. The virtual event, organized by WildEarth, offered a rare opportunity to step into the mind of the acclaimed thriller writer who has spent his career blending gripping narratives with a deep respect for the landscapes and wildlife of Southern Africa.
A Conversation Beyond the Page
Park, best known for weaving his suspenseful novels into the heart of Africa’s savannas, rivers, and national parks, used this conversation to do far more than talk about his latest release, Die by the Sword.
He opened a window into the urgency of wildlife conservation, the realities of living in Africa, and how storytelling can serve as a tool for activism and education.
While the fireside chat spotlighted Park’s writing career, it quickly evolved into something more powerful. Host Ben Coley asked the author to reflect on the inspirations that fuel his novels, and Park repeatedly circled back to one central theme: the fight to protect Africa’s wildlife.
“I can’t write about Africa without writing about its animals, its people, and the battles they face every single day,” Park shared during the interview. This sense of responsibility, he explained, is what pushes him to research real-world conservation challenges and build them into his fictional plots. Whether it’s elephant poaching, rhino protection, or the encroachment of human development on natural habitats, Park’s novels often carry a dual role—entertaining readers while exposing them to critical environmental issues.
Africa as Character, Not Just Setting
Park has often said that Africa is not just a backdrop in his novels but a character in itself. From the dusty roads of the Kruger National Park to the remote wilderness of Zimbabwe, his stories are infused with details only possible from decades of immersion in the region.
The author admitted that much of his passion for the continent comes from living part-time in South Africa, where he splits his time between the bush and his home in Australia. This lifestyle has given him a unique perspective: he doesn’t just research Africa—he lives it. That authenticity shines in his books, creating a visceral connection for readers while reminding them of the real places, communities, and animals that inspired the stories.
Linking Storytelling to Conservation Action
One of the most compelling parts of the discussion was Park’s emphasis on storytelling as an instrument for conservation. While scientific reports and data are critical, they often fail to reach a wide audience. Fiction, however, can stir emotions, expand empathy, and ignite action.
Park highlighted how novels can make global readers care about issues like rhino poaching or the illegal wildlife trade—topics that might otherwise feel distant. He described his characters as bridges between readers and Africa’s conservation struggles, encouraging people to not only learn but also to get involved.
For those inspired to take the next step, resources like Sustainable Action Now’s wildlife section provide direct ways to support global and local conservation efforts, from protecting endangered species to advocating for stronger environmental policies.
The Role of WildEarth
The event’s host, WildEarth, is no stranger to connecting people with nature. Known for its live-streamed safari experiences, the organization is dedicated to bringing African wildlife into homes worldwide. By offering both free and subscriber-supported content, WildEarth makes conservation education accessible while building a community of nature advocates.
Through platforms like this fireside chat, WildEarth helps amplify voices like Tony Park’s—writers, scientists, and storytellers who can inspire a global audience to look beyond entertainment and recognize the pressing challenges facing our planet.
As climate change, poaching, and habitat destruction continue to threaten ecosystems, conversations like this fireside chat are more than literary discussions—they’re a call to action. Tony Park’s novels may take the form of thrillers, but their underlying message is clear: protecting Africa’s wilderness and wildlife is not optional. It is essential.
By shining a spotlight on these issues, Park ensures that every page turned becomes a reminder of what’s at stake. The September 14th event was not just about promoting a new book; it was about building momentum for sustainable action and ensuring that the next generation has the chance to experience the majesty of Africa’s elephants, lions, and rhinos in the wild, not just on the page.
The Fireside Chat with Tony Park succeeded in blending the art of storytelling with the urgency of conservation. For readers, it was a chance to hear from a best-selling author about his creative process and love of Africa. For conservationists, it was another reminder of how powerful words can be in shaping awareness and inspiring change.
At its heart, this event reflected the mission shared by organizations like Sustainable Action Now: to connect people with meaningful action that protects the planet and its creatures. Whether through fiction, live safari broadcasts, or grassroots activism, the goal remains the same—a future where wildlife thrives, and people act with purpose to protect it.
For more resources on conservation and how you can make a difference, visit Sustainable Action Now’s wildlife initiatives.
