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Some of the most beautiful and interesting books out this year touch on themes of nature, place, the environment we live in and how we interact with it. We’ve compiled some real standouts which are perfect to both give as gifts and perhaps to add to your own festive wish list!
English Pastoral
James Rebanks
Rebanks, writing of his beloved Lake District, describes the transition of his family farm from traditional agriculture as practiced by his grandfather who secured James’ connection to their land; to his father, driven by government policy, industrial commercial interests and the struggle to keep the farm economically viable and now, with a better understanding of how to work with nature, James seeks a more balanced approach. A reassuring message from a real farmer.
Woodston
John Lewis-Stempel
A history of the farm associated with the Lewis-Stempel’s family for generations told in the context of the English history and agricultural development. What it might have looked like in medieval times, the impact of the agricultural revolution and up to today: “Treading lightly on the soil. Understanding, appreciating that Nature and the famer should be a union”. Fascinating and beautifully written.
Birdsong In A Time Of Silence
Steven Lovatt
Constrained by lockdown, Lovatt re-discovers his love of birds by paying close attention to the avian life within walking distance of his home. A delight to share his joy in observing and learning, and a reminder that the natural world on our doorstep can provide the connection to nature that we all need.
Cider Country
James Crowden
The definitive history of cider and cider-making. From its ancient roots in Kazakhstan to the renaissance of contemporary artisan makers, its rich cultural heritage and value to local rural communities. Full of fascinating details illustrating cider’s contribution to medicine, horticulture, foreign trade, poetry, tax revenues and much more. Written with wit, erudition and style.
The Heeding
Rob Cowen
A memorable collection of poems from the first year of the pandemic. Referencing nature and personal experience this very accessible collection is beautifully illustrated by Nick Hayes (author and illustrator of Trespass). Touching, thoughtful and provoking reflection on an episode everyone will remember for the rest of their lives. Highly recommended.
A Year Unfolding : A Printmaker’s View
Angela Harding
The most beautiful nature book of the year. Highly esteemed artist and printmaker Angela Harding’s collection of seasonal prints with informative notes. With one or more illustration to over 150 pages one can gain a true appreciation of the artist’s creativity, skill and love for her subjects. This will become a treasured book.
The New Sylva
Gabriel Hemery
In 1662 John Evelyn published ‘Sylva’ the first authoritative book on trees and woodland. It was a hugely influential title promoting good sylviculture principally to protect and develop England’s timber stock. Trees need our help even more today. The New Sylva is a beautiful and encyclopaedic reference work for everyone interested in trees. Superbly illustrated by Sarah Simblet’s drawings with text by Gabriel Hemery, silvologist & head of the Sylva Foundation. Not a brand new book but timeless.
Thirteen Ways To Smell A Tree
David George Haskell
Possibly the quirkiest nature book of the year but great fun and practical – get out there and start sniffing!
Abundance: Nature In Recovery
Karen Lloyd
Essays on the theme of the abundance of natural life; what it looks like, what has been lost, how there is hope for recovery. Exploring locations from Cumbria to Scotland to Spain to Hungary and more Karen Lloyd helps us see and understand what a more balanced ecology sustaining people and wildlife can look like.
On Gallows Down
Nicola Chester
Deeply rooted in her Berkshire homeland, Nicola Chester reacted to the destruction caused by massive road building in the 1990s. Her passion drove her to become activist, naturalist, nature writer and educator. An inspiring story.
