Internationally award-winning student conservationist launches debut novel

Lyndon Howson, an internationally recognised award-winning young conservationist and passionate advocate for British wildlife, has written his debut novel about a subject close to his heart. The Blight’s End is a powerful and timely adventure.

Lyndon is a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation who has already made a name for himself in the conservation world, winning prestigious accolades such as the People of Nature Award, Conservationist of the Year – Fauna, and the Mammal Champion Award from the Mammal Society for his pioneering work in hedgehog conservation.

Currently studying for a Master’s of Research at the University of Chester, his work focuses on the role of schools in hedgehog conservation, alongside his leadership of the Hedgehog Friendly Campus Project.

He is now sharing his love of conservation through fiction with his debut novel. The Blight’s End, a 160-page adventure novel, follows Hector, a courageous young hedgehog, as he embarks on a quest to save his woodland home from an encroaching, mysterious force known as ‘The Blight’. Through themes of friendship, teamwork, and environmental protection, the book highlights the power of small actions in making a big difference, a message that resonates strongly in today’s climate-conscious world.

Lyndon, originally from Grange-over-Sands, has spent years leading conservation initiatives, speaking at national conferences and educational events and collaborating with leading wildlife organisations to protect Britain’s only spiky animal. Now, he is bringing his passion for conservation to the world of storytelling with The Blight’s End, a novel designed to inspire young readers and families to reconnect with nature. He aims to encourage readers to appreciate the wildlife around them, and see nature not just as something to protect, but as something magical.

Lyndon said: “This story is more than just an adventure; it’s a way to inspire readers to connect with nature and recognise the importance of working together to protect it. With hedgehog populations in decline, I wanted to write something that blends conservation and storytelling, making wildlife protection more accessible and engaging for all ages.”

The Blight’s End is released on Monday, May 26 2025 and is available for preorder now through Amazon and Waterstones online. It is available in both hardback, paperback and e-book formats.

Lyndon added: “This book is incredibly personal to me, blending my love for conservation with the power of storytelling. I can’t wait for readers to embark on this journey with my little hedgehog hero. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or simply looking for a heartfelt story, The Blight’s End has something for you.

“Through the story of a small but courageous hero, I hope to inspire young people to see nature not just as something to protect, but as an incredible, magical world to explore. Every forest, every animal has a story, and I want readers to feel the wonder and adventure that exists just beyond their doorstep."

Unlike many fictional adventure stories, The Blight’s End is deeply rooted in real-life conservation efforts. Lyndon’s expertise in hedgehog ecology and his experience leading nationwide wildlife initiatives give the novel a rare blend of authenticity and imagination.

He added: “We often underestimate the power of stories in driving real-world change.  Every great movement begins with awareness and stories have a way of sparking curiosity and empathy. The Blight’s End isn’t just about one hedgehog’s journey, it’s about all of us and the small ways we can make a difference in protecting our planet.”

To order a copy of the book visit here The Blight's End by Lyndon Howson | Waterstones