After moving to Devon, Guy Shrubsole was astounded to discover temperate rainforests on his doorstep. Entranced by their beauty and abundance he set out to discover all he could about this rare and precious habitat. Beginning in Wistman’s Wood and other Dartmoor fragments he travels up the western seaboard of Britain including Wales, the Lakes and Scotland exploring these magical woodlands, their biodiversity, their people, their history and deep connections to our culture.

What he discovered was a landscape massively depleted over time and at serious risk due to lack of knowledge, archaic landownership laws, and poor management. He determined to do what he could to save our rainforests. Inspired by success stories like Lustleigh Cleeve he began a campaign to raise awareness, map the forests and influence landowners and policy makers.

Shrubsole’s enthusiasm and vivid descriptive writing are infectious; you will be inspired to go out and explore some of the precious remnants here in Devon. The Lost Rainforests of Britain is one of the most important natural history books to be published this year and will deepen your appreciation of our natural world.

(Review by Andrew)