Losing access to a perfume might sound like a tolerable inconvenience. But in northern Nigeria, a scent derived from one particular wood has long been central to the cultural identity of the Borno people. Gathering that wood has become perilous as Boko Haram insurgents patrol the forests. Our reporter found some perfumers whose work now extends to no less than preserving centuries of tradition . Against fear, they deploy a deep resolve.

We also offer two essays on family bonding: one around reading , the other around an interest in animals kindled by the work of the late Jane Goodall.

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