Ruby Free, a conservation biologist and now an emerging author, is set to captivate readers with her debut book, tentatively titled "Rathlin - A Wild Life."
The book, which intertwines personal narrative with environmental advocacy, will be the centrepiece of a special event at Waterstones in Ballymena on Thursday, October 10th at 7pm.
Ruby Free, originally from Dorset but now calling County Antrim home, has poured her experiences from living on Rathlin Island into her writing. The young woman lived on the island for a period of time before relocating to Ballyconnelly Farm, just outside Ballymena.
Her book delves into her time at the RSPB West Light Seabird Reserve, offering readers not only a glimpse into the vibrant life of seabirds but also into her personal journey amidst the backdrop of nature's beauty and fragility.
Rathlin - A Wild Life aims to be more than just a memoir; it's a call to action, woven through stories of joy, challenge, and the intimate bond between humans and nature. Ruby's narrative is expected to highlight the urgent need for environmental conservation, making the case through her uplifting encounters and the stark realities of the climate crisis.
The event at Waterstones will offer attendees a chance to hear Ruby discuss her book, her life changes, and her ongoing projects at Ballyconnelly Farm, where she's currently involved in setting up a community growing space and rewilding initiatives alongside her partner Craig.
This engagement with the community reflects her commitment to reconnecting people with nature, a theme that resonates throughout her book.
Ruby's background in ecological management and conservation biology, which she pursued through an MSc, adds depth to her writing, providing readers with informed insights into ecological preservation. Her adventures, from the coasts of Canada for her research to surfing and illustrating in Ireland, enrich her storytelling, making Whispers of Rathlin a multifaceted read.
Ruby reflected on her love of the natural world, saying:
“I’ve worked and volunteered in the environmental conservation sector since I was 16. I find it hard to determine a moment in my life where I began to love nature – I think I always have, which in part comes from being lucky enough to grow up along the beautiful and biodiverse Jurassic coastline. But in discovering much of the natural world was under threat when I was a young teen, I knew then I had to do everything I could in my life to try help it.”
The community and book enthusiasts alike are invited to this free event, where Ruby will share her passion for nature writing, conservation, and perhaps inspire others to take action in their own ways. This event not only marks the launch of her book but also celebrates the integration of literature with environmental activism, a testament to Ruby's passion and work.
“Highlighting the highs and lows of the seabird colony and moments in my personal life, the read aims to give insight into and spread awareness for the nature and climate crisis, through an uplifting and joyous story,” said Ruby.
“Alongside my passion of nature-writing, these days any spare opportunity to unwind is spent adventuring with my dog Isla, surfing, growing food or illustrating.
“If you’d like to hear me talk about all my book, and all the life-changes experiences within it, come to Waterstones Ballymena on Thursday 10th October at 7pm!”
For those interested in nature, conservation, or simply a story of personal growth intertwined with the natural world, Ruby Free's event at Waterstones Ballymena is not to be missed. It's an opportunity to meet the author, get a signed copy of the book, and engage in discussions about our role in nature's future.