May, 2012
 
 
Tony Tapir
Hoping for a happy ending
Book cover
This storybook might help save wild animals in Southeast Asia.

The tapir is a shy creature who would normally avoid being the centre of attention. But, a new book by Singapore author Patricia G. I. Chew has certainly put the spotlight on the animal. Her book, titled Tony Tapir and Friends, features the tapir as well as a host of other jungle inhabitants as they fight a threat to their forest home. "Tony Tapir is a sort of hero who is silent, but emerges as being the catalyst for doing something for his community," Ms Chew tells What's Up.

Her story ends on a happy note and she wishes that it could be the same in real life as well. "I realised that not only the tapir but most of his friends are endangered animals," continues the author. Deforestation, hunting and other human activities are driving many animals in Southeast Asia to extinction.

Disappearing species
"After I wrote this book, the Javan Rhinoceros, which inspired the character Rudianto Rhinoceros has become extinct in Vietnam. The last rhinoceros in Vietnam died before Christmas, although they can still be found in Java."

Ms Chew's story helps readers become more familiar with creatures like the tapir, who may not always get the attention it deserves. "I still have queries from Singaporeans who ask me where tapirs are from," she says. "Imagine their shock when I tell them that they live across the Causeway!" Bringing these creatures into our lives through stories is thus a good way to build an interest for local wildlife among readers, and also to encourage them to care.
 
Author
Author Patricia Chew (extreme right) with some of Tony Tapir's fans

Tony Tapir and Friends can be found in all major bookstores in Singapore. And, if one of his adventures is not enough for you, you can look forward to the second book in the series later this year. It is called The Quest for the Great Pearl and, according to the author, has a lot more action.