Helen Macdonald

Helen Macdonald is a British-born writer and naturalist based in Cambridge, England. She is the author of several books, including the award winning H Is for Hawk. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, and a Research Associate at the University of Cambridge Department of History and Philosophy of Science.

Helen was born and raised in England, and her love for nature was instilled in her from an early age. She was particularly drawn to birds of prey, and view them as a way to connect with the natural world. She spent much of her adolescence observing and studying the behavior of owls, hawks, and other raptors. After graduating from university with a degree in English Literature, Helen pursued a career as a professional falconer, working with hawks, kestrels, and other birds of prey.

In 2014, Helen published her first book, H Is for Hawk. The book is an account of her experience of training and nurturing a wild goshawk, and her reflections on the nature of grief. The book was an instant success and garnered Helen significant critical acclaim. She won the Costa Book of the Year in 2014 and the Samuel Johnson Prize for Non-Fiction in 2015.

Helen has since published several other books, all of which showcase her deep understanding of the natural world and its inhabitants. She has written about hedgehogs in The Urban Bestiary (2016), revisited her journey with a goshawk in Vesper Flights (2020), and documented her love of British Wildlife in Places of Wonder (2020). Her writing is characterised by a compassionate voice and an immersion into the world of nature, giving readers an opportunity to appreciate and connect with the natural world on a deeper level.

Helen has also dived into the world of television and podcasts. She has contributed to numerous podcasts and television shows, with topics ranging from animal conservation to environmental ethics. She also made an appearance on The Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, an annual series of lectures in the United Kingdom.

Helen's writing and television appearances have made her a well-known figure in literary circles, and her books are now published in more than 30 countries. She has also been recognised for her scholarly works, with honorary doctorates from the University of York, the University of Oxford, and the University of Cambridge.

Helen's writing may be characterised by her love for the natural world. Whether she is writing about goshawks, owls, or sparrows, her work is always eloquent and compassionate. She encourages readers to observe nature, appreciate its beauty, and be mindful of our own impact on the environment. For readers looking to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world, Helen Macdonald is the perfect choice.