Free from School

Free from School is a richly detailed account of Rahul Alvares’s self-directed learning journey after finishing formal schooling. Rather than following a traditional academic path, Rahul immerses himself in practical experiences that connect him deeply with nature, wildlife, and local communities.

The narrative begins with Rahul’s work at Ashok D'Cruz’s aquarium shop in Mapusa, Goa, where he learns the ropes of fish care, tank construction, and business management. His tasks range from cycling to client visits and spying on competitors to diagnosing fish health issues caused by overfeeding. These early experiences teach him responsibility, money management, and the value of observation and experimentation. Rahul’s enthusiasm for aquarium fish grows alongside his developing independence, as he also explores organic farming basics locally, attends plant festivals, and completes a mushroom cultivation course at ICAR Ela Farm.

Rahul’s learning journey then takes him beyond Goa. Traveling with his father and later alone, he attends organic farming seminars in Kerala, visits large farms, and explores forested areas, observing wildlife like Nilgiri Langurs and deer. His time at the Pune Snake Park is transformative: he overcomes a childhood fear of snakes by handling them directly, enduring multiple non-poisonous bites, and assisting with snake rescue calls. This hands-on approach continues with a stay at the Earthworm Institute in Chennai, where he studies vermiculture, soil sampling, and earthworm biology, navigating challenges like getting lost and adapting to new environments.

Further expanding his wildlife experience, Rahul studies spiders under Dr. K. Vijayalakshmi, known as India’s 'Spider Woman,' learning about rearing giant crab spiders for biological pest control. He then spends time at the Crocodile Bank in Mamallapuram, assisting with crocodile care, turtle treatment, and snake handling alongside experts like Romulus Whitaker and the Irula snake catchers. His stay includes both scientific work and lighter moments such as music, movies, and humorous mishaps like a wild haircut.

Back in Bangalore, Rahul conducts workshops on vermiculture and snakes, gaining confidence in public speaking and community engagement. He participates in a forest survey project with the Goa Foundation that helps curb illegal tree cutting, and he is invited as Chief Guest at an Environment Day event in Belgaum, where he shares his knowledge with students and parents. Throughout, Rahul reflects on the value of experiential learning, the importance of community and mentorship, and the joy found in connecting with nature.

The book combines practical advice, vivid descriptions of animals and environments, and candid personal reflections. It offers a window into alternative educational paths grounded in curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to step outside comfort zones. While the narrative sometimes leaves open questions about the long-term outcomes of certain experiences, it consistently highlights growth through real-world challenges and the blending of scientific knowledge with hands-on practice.