Book Review: ‘Eradication’ by Jonathan Miles

Book Title: Eradication: A Fable
Author: Jonathan Miles
Publisher: Doubleday
Number of Pages: 176
ISBN: 1529449030
Date Published: Feb. 5, 2026

Book Review

Jonathan Miles’ novel “Eradication: A Fable” follows Adi, a former jazz musician turned schoolteacher, who is hired to eliminate a population of invasive goats on the remote Pacific Island of Santa Flora. Tasked by a foundation with restoring ecological balance, Adi grapples with the moral complexities of his assignment, which involves killing innocuous creatures for a stated noble cause.

The story reflects Adi’s personal struggles, including the grief of losing his young son and the dissolution of his marriage, revealing how these experiences shape his ambivalence toward the task. As he navigates the island’s challenges, he saves an endangered bird and encounters fishermen illegally harvesting sharks, prompting critical reflection on human impact on nature. The story crescendos in the final pages, where Adi is forced to confront the legitimacy of his mission. Author Miles masterfully intertwines themes of grief, morality, and human interaction with fragile ecosystems.

Also Read: Book Review: ‘Catch Her If You Can’ by Tessa Bailey

Ultimately, “Eradication” serves as a poignant reflection on contemporary environmental issues, challenging readers to consider the ethical implications of conservation efforts amidst a backdrop of personal tragedy and societal irresponsibility.

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