Two years ago, Operation Ark, published by Claret Press, was launched into the world. What began as the telling of one extraordinary chapter in history has become something much greater—a lasting testament to courage, compassion, and the unwavering belief that no one, human or animal, should ever be left behind.
Today, with an outstanding 4.7-star rating on Amazon, Operation Ark continues to resonate with readers across the world, touching hearts with its honest, raw and deeply moving account of what really happened in Kabul during those unforgettable days of August 2021.
67 People. 171 Animals. Getting out was only half the battle.
When Afghanistan fell and the British evacuation descended into confusion, danger and heartbreak, Pen Farthing refused to abandon the Afghan staff who had dedicated years of their lives to Nowzad, nor the rescue animals who depended on them. In that defining moment, Operation Ark was born.
The headlines at the time did not always tell the truth. Some unfairly portrayed Pen as a man who cared more about animals than people. But history—and this book—tell a very different story. Operation Ark was always about saving families, protecting livelihoods, preserving hope and ensuring that compassion was never forced to choose between people and animals. As Ricky Gervais so perfectly said:
Operation Ark was always about people and animals. Pen Farthing's actions were nothing short of heroic.
Since its publication, the book has sparked countless conversations about leadership, integrity, animal welfare and humanitarian responsibility. It has given readers the opportunity to discover what really happened beyond the newspaper headlines and has become a powerful reminder that courage often comes at a personal cost.
Over the past two years, Pen has shared the story through numerous podcast appearances, radio interviews and public conversations, speaking openly about the realities of Operation Ark, the human stories behind the mission and the lessons learned from one of the most extraordinary rescue efforts in recent history. Every interview has helped ensure that the voices of the Nowzad team—and the truth of what happened in Kabul—continue to be heard.
Thanks to supporters around the world, Nowzad remains active in Afghanistan, providing veterinary care, rescuing vulnerable animals, running rabies vaccination and sterilisation programmes, supporting working animals that families depend upon for their livelihoods, and helping improve animal welfare in communities facing extraordinary challenges. Every rescue, every vaccination and every life changed is part of the legacy that Operation Ark helped create.
When you purchase Operation Ark, you are not simply buying a book, you are becoming part of that continuing story.
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As we mark two years since the publication of Operation Ark, we want to thank every reader, every supporter and every person who stood beside us. Your kindness has helped turn one incredible rescue mission into a lasting movement of hope.