Natural History Books

Book SynopsisWildflowers are not only beautiful, they are of vital importance in providing food for bees and other pollinators. And they are found everywhere - in meadows, woodlands, jungles, mountains, deserts, grasslands and even in towns and cities. This fabulously illustrated book showcases dozens of different species with over 130 flower and insect stickers to add to the delightful scenes. Each is carefully labelled to help you differentiate cornflowers from corn cockles and poppies from primroses.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Cats love to play: here is THE book that shows you how to join in! And your cat will thank you for it' John Bradshaw, Sunday Times bestselling author of In Defence of Dogs and Cat Sense'Trust me, Play With Your Cat is an indispensable addition to any cat lover's library!' Jackson Galaxy, New York Times bestselling author and star of My Cat from HellWhat does a cat need besides food, a comfortable home and access to a good vet? PLAY!This practical guide from leading cat behaviour scientist Dr Mikel Maria Delgado explains how interactive play is at the centre of your cat's overall health. Revealing how it mimics the hunting experience that shaped cats' evolution, Play With Your Cat! includes:- Advice on selecting toys and setting up your home environment for the perfect play session - Guidance on specific play techniques to exercise your cat's body and mind - Tips on engaging nonchalant, anxious and uninterested kitties - How to use play to address behavioural issues like aggression and

Read more less

Book SynopsisA perfect gift for the hikers, walkers, and tree lovers in your life, this illuminating manifesto on ancient forests reveals how they adapt to climate change by passing their wisdom through generations, and why our future lies in protecting them."Another love letter from Wohlleben to the green world… makes the case for how we should allow forests throughout the world to regrow and in the process help heal not only the climate but us, as well."—Lydia Millet, Oprah DailyIn his beloved book The Hidden Life of Trees, Peter Wohlleben revealed astonishing discoveries about the social networks of trees and how they communicate. Now, in The Power of Trees, he turns to their future, with a searing critique of forestry management, tree planting, and the exploitation of old growth forests.As human-caused climate change devastates the planet, forests play a critical role in keeping it habitable. While politicians and business leaders would have us believe that cutting down forests can be offset by mass tree planting, Wohlleben offers a warning: many tree planting campaigns lead to ecological disaster. Not only are these trees more susceptible to disease, flooding, fires, and landslides, we need to understand that forests are more than simply a collection of trees. Instead, they are ecosystems that consist of thousands of species, from animals to fungi and bacteria. The way to save trees, and ourselves? Step aside and let forests—which are naturally better equipped to face environmental challenges—heal themselves.With the warmth and wonder familiar to readers from his previous books, Wohlleben also shares emerging scientific research about how forests shape climates both locally and across continents; that trees adapt to changing environmental conditions through passing knowledge down to their offspring; and how old growth may in fact have the most survival strategies for climate change.At the heart of The Power of Trees lies Wohlleben's passionate plea: that our survival is dependent on trusting ancient forests, and allowing them to thrive.Published in Partnership with the David Suzuki Institute.Trade Review"Wise and thought-provoking."—The Observer"Wohlleben. . . offers a pointed critique of harmful forestry practices and urges humans to let trees heal themselves. . . [T]he insights into trees’ surprising abilities captivate. . . Nature lovers should take note."—Publishers Weekly"Insightful and valuable. . . Wohlleben is a wide-ranging and meticulous researcher as well as a careful observer. . . This is an essential book for any botanist, forester, student of the environment or politician."—The Winnipeg Free Press"If we don't learn to leave the trees alone, the trees will eventually be alone anyway—but without us. Wohlleben brilliantly and readably shows us how urgent and how hard it is to do nothing."—The Guardian"Another love letter from Wohlleben to the green world. . . [The Power of Trees] makes the case for how we should allow forests throughout the world to regrow and in the process help heal not only the climate but us, as well."—Lydia Millet, Oprah Daily"Forester and bestselling environmental writer Wohlleben (Forest Walking, 2022) draws largely on observations of his home territory in Germany in this thoughtful look at how trees learn and adapt. . . the forest is often the last recipient of humanity's benevolence. The author is in his element here as a gentle purveyor of knowledge that provides a new perspective on a crucially important topic. His many fans will be enthused, and new readers will appreciate entering Wohlleben's evocative world."—Booklist"In clear, vivid prose and with impeccable reasoning, Peter Wohlleben makes a compelling case that almost everything we do in modern forestry management may be dead wrong. What should we do instead? Let the wisdom of the trees quell our human arrogance, heal the forest, and restore our sweet, green world."—Sy Montgomery, author of How to Be A Good Creature"Trees, says Peter Wohlleben, have wisdom. So does he. In this magisterial take on how forests can save the planet from our worst endeavours, the German forester warns us against the hubris of tree planting. For their forest wisdom is greater than ours. Planting is usually bad, a 'giant PR operation.' Instead, he says, the world needs the quiet magic of natural forest restoration. We are, at best, stewards of the world's forests. We must stand back and let them grow."—Fred Pearce, author of A Trillion Trees: Restoring Our Forests by Trusting in Nature."The Power of Trees sends a powerful message that humankind will not survive unless we revolutionize the way we conserve and manage our planet's dwindling forests. Through eye-opening stories, Wohlleben underscores how trees and the biodiversity of the natural world present us with critically important solutions to the climate crisis. [It is an important wakeup call for individuals and large-scale forest managers alike!]"—Jeffrey Horowitz, founder of Avoided Deforestation Partners and founding trustee of the Jane Goodall Legacy Foundation"Wohlleben continues to provide convincing and concrete research-based reasons why trees, and more specifically old growth forests, are critical to the health and survival of our planet and all that lives upon it. . . I would call this a must read for everyone!"—Cori Cusker, Bright Side Bookshop, Flagstaff"Peter Wohlleben is such a prolific author, you may look at The Power of Trees and wonder what he could possibly have left to say and move on. You'd be mistaken. . . A vital and important read for anyone who cares about our collective future on this planet."—Tom Beans, Dudley's Bookshop Cafe, Bend"An urgent and informative book that advocates for a new approach to managing forests that recognizes their complex nature as ecosystems rather than mere warehouses for wood. . . Wohlleben has faith that forests can rebound. He just hopes we'll still be around."—Suzanne Morgan, Politics & Prose, Washington"Wohlleben speaks to the importance of our ancient trees and forests. Rather than planting forests of new trees, he explains the huge benefits to be gained from stepping back and allowing the trees to do it themselves. Through his meticulous research and observation, he has discovered the extent to which ancient trees accumulate knowledge and pass it on the younger generations. If we can only trust them, and curb the desire to interfere, they have the power to heal our planet. Highly Recommended!"—Becky Doherty, Northshire Bookstore, Saratoga Springs"From the "tree whisperer" (my nickname for Peter Wohlleben) comes his latest reveal of what it means to be a tree and what it means to be humans who are dependent on trees for our well-being. . . Whether you've read his previous bestseller—The Hidden Life of Trees—or are just now discovering the wonders of his writing, you'll get a real education out of this new book. . . I really want you to read this!"—Linda Bond, Auntie's Bookstore, Spokane"Wohlleben has taken off his gloves and has named the enemy: foresters, and associated players like government agencies, lumber companies, lobbyists, PLUS the heavy machinery that kills soil for centuries (think of still-visible Roman roads). . .Wohlleben has nailed the solution in just a few strokes. FABULOUS!!!"—Kay Wosewick, Boswell Book Company, MilwaukeePraise for The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter WohllebenA NEW YORK TIMES, WASHINGTON POST, AND WALL STREET JOURNAL BESTSELLER"A declaration of love and an engrossing primer on trees, brimming with facts and an unashamed awe for nature."—Washington Post"Heavily dusted with the glitter of wonderment."—The New Yorker"This fascinating book will intrigue readers who love a walk through the woods."—Publishers Weekly"In this spirited exploration, [Wohlleben] guarantees that readers will never look at these life forms in quite the same way again."—Library Journal

Read more less

Book Synopsis The perfect gift for cat lovers everywhere, Rescue Cats will delight and inspire with its collection of full-color, close-up portraits of cats and their stories of adoption, from the award-winning author of Finding Home and Forever Home. Celebrated animal photographer Traer Scott invites readers on a heartwarming journey into the lives of courageous rescue cats and kittens, captured in evocative images and remarkable stories. In these pages, you’ll meet: Forrest, a majestic Maine Coon who was born with an impairment and found on the street as a twelve-week-old stray. After finding the perfect home, he now goes kayaking and camping with his family. Linus, once a severely malnourished kitten weighing less than one ounce and given no chance of survival. After months of careful foster care, he grew to be a healthy and beloved pet. A litter of kittens, shown week by week, r

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling authors of Atlas Obscura and Gastro Obscura comes a nature book like no other—a dazzling, over-the-top collection of the world's most extraordinary wild species that takes you to all seven continents and beyond. It's more than a field guide–it's an adventure.  From the curious minds of Atlas Obscura, authors of #1 New York Times bestselling Atlas Obscura and Gastro Obscura, comes an unputdownable celebration of the world's living wonders. Learn how dung beetles navigate by the stars, and trees communicate through their roots. Meet one of the strongest animals in the world: the puny peacock mantis shrimp. Pay your respects to a 44,000 year old shrub, float along flying rivers, and explore a garbage dump overseen by endangered storks. Examine old examples of bird song notation written on sheet music. Also, first p

Read more less

Book SynopsisSome of the simplest, yet most powerful lessons we learn are often taught by the least likely of our family members - our cats! We can learn something from them every day if we just open our minds and our hearts to the valuable lessons they are trying to teach. What do we learn from our cats? Everything. Our cats make us better people. If we rescued them, they rescue us back. If we’re sad, they comfort us. If we need to have more fun, they show us how. They are our therapists, our role models, and our best friends. You’ll laugh a lot, tear up at times, and nod your head in recognition as you read these tales about the wonderful experience of sharing life with a cat. Lessons from our cats come in many forms, from the hilarious to the heroic. You’ll enjoy a wide variety of entertaining stories in these ten chapters: • Learning to Love the Cat • Small But Mighty • You Just Have to Laugh • Lost and Found • Meant to Be • Miracles Happen • Perks & Quirks • My Very Good, Very Bad Cat • Natural Therapists • Opening Hearts And your purchase of this book will help support the important work of American Humane, creating a better life for cats everywhere. Chicken Soup for the Soul books are 100% made in the USA and each book includes stories from as diverse a group of writers as possible. Chicken Soup for the Soul solicits and publishes stories from the LGBTQ community and from people of all ethnicities, nationalities, and religions.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated guide to whippets, forming part of a new series and packed with tips and tricks to keep your furry friends happy. There are many things to consider when you become a dog owner. How often should I walk them? How much training will they need? What is poisonous to my pet? Should I trust those doe eyes? This playful and informative book takes a fresh look at the wonderful world of whippets and explains everything you need to know about this energetic breed while celebrating their gentle personalities. Breed character, reasons to own a whippet and likes and dislikes are covered along with advice on training, grooming, diet and health. Illustrated by Meredith Jensen and packed with adorable photographs of beloved pets, dog lovers will adore this playful celebration of whippets.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Naturalist's Guide to the Birds of India is an introductory photographic identification guide to 280 bird species and 100 closely related species most commonly seen in India. Aimed at first-time birders, it is perfect for resident and visitor alike. High quality photographs from one of India's top nature photographers are accompanied by detailed species descriptions, which include nomenclature, size, distribution, habits and habitat. The user-friendly introduction covers geography and climate, vegetation, opportunities for naturalists and the main sites for viewing the listed species. This new 2nd edition includes updated taxonomy and over 300 new images. Also included is an all-important checklist of all of the birds of India encompassing, for each species, its common and scientific name as well as its vernacular name, its status in each state as well as its global IUCN status.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"A Choice Outstanding Academic Title of the Year""[A] wonderful book. . . . [This] timely and beautifully written work has the potential of enlightening potential learners on all levels."---Steve Dixon, Library Journal, starred review"[A] magnificently-illustrated portal to the secret lives of microbes, fungi, and mosses, squirrels, insects, and lizards alike."---Mike Lunsford, Tribune-Star"In a word, it is superb. James Nardi has done a magnificent job."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"A tree may be bound to a single spot for the whole of its term. It may endure for centuries and seem heroically resigned, doomed even, to isolation. Yet its entire existence is one prolonged process of sharing. It is a lesson from trees we should heed. Nardi’s book is the perfect place to learn it."---Mark Cocker, New Statesman"Fascinating from a British perspective. The presentation in one volume of the sheer number of different species, their interdependence on each other . . . was certainly eye-opening. These organisms need to be less hidden for us all to appreciate and recognise the importance of trees as highly complex ecosystems, to increase the likelihood of them being treated with the respect they deserve."---Mary Cooper, Small Woodland Owners' Group"[The] illustrations are beyond charming and it’s just so packed with information."---Margaret Roach, A Way to Garden"This is a lovely book for anyone keen to dive deep into the wide variety of life supported and sustained by trees. Written by James Nardi . . . the book is a detailed natural history of trees and their interactions with microbes and animals, incorporating tree biology and a lot of entomology."---Penny Sarchet, Wild Wild Life, New Scientist"Highly recommended."---G.C. Stevens, Choice"Ideal for naturalists and examines these relationships [between trees and ecosystems] in an insightful way." * English Garden Magazine *"Wonderfully accessible . . . full of fascinating information and written by a research scientist. . . . Engaging with and encouraging the reader to linger and absorb what is being said at a leisurely pace."---Sean Sheehan, Pris"[A] beautifully presented and well-illustrated book on a unique ecosystem and obviously a real labour of love by the author and full of fascinating information and the latest science."---Roy Stewart, British Naturalists Association

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn entertaining and charming collection of stories, poems and quotes, in celebration of cats.For eons, cats and humans have enjoyed a special bond. With their aloof yet undeniably adorable personalities, they have long been the object of fascination and inspiration. This beautiful little book celebrates the quirks and mysteries of our favourite furry friends and how they have endured as our most beloved pet.Featuring feline facts and entertaining tales, alongside an array of quotations and poems to entertain and delight in equal measure, this collection is packed full of purrls of wisdom, perfect for any cat lover. Featuring charming illustrations throughout, Quotes and Tales is an essential companion for cat parents everywhere.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Monks of New Skete, longtime breeders of German shepherds and renowned dog trainers of all breeds, have codeveloped a new training technique. In this book, the monks and Marc Goldberg, who pioneered the approach, offer a leap into the future using a game-changing tool: the remote electronic collar. The Art of Training Your Dog presents their compassionate and efficient system for the first time, with background and advice on choosing the right collar. Using a light touch—one that many humans can’t even feel—at just the right moment, helps to focus a dog’s attention. The authors help you create effortless teaching moments that tie into your dog’s natural pack instincts and help strengthen the bond with your dog. In as little as just 6 weeks, most pups will master skills like great leash manners; obey commands such as “sit”, “down”, “stay” and “place”; stop troublesome behaviours; and play safely off-leash with consistent recall.Trade Review"We first heard about the Monks of New Skete when a friend suggested their books to help us raise our sons. It worked! Their newest, The Art of Training Your Dog, is my favorite. Its very clear, step-by-step process has helped us tame our soulful, 60-pound dog Becky into a thankful, loving addition to our family." -- Mandy Patinkin"Finally, a well-structured, informative, and effective training guide to using an e-collar gently. A must for the new dog owner, as well as trainers who want to brush up on their skills using the latest technology." -- Wendy Volhard, author of Dog Training for Dummies"The method described in The Art of Training Your Dog is nothing short of miraculous. After using it, our dog no longer chased every squirrel and was better behaved, happier, and fun to take on walks." -- Karen Terio, DVM, PhD

Read more less

Book SynopsisGet ready for an epic mission INSIDE a water dragon in Alex Neptune's third fast and funny adventure - perfect for fans of Percy Jackson and Dragon Realm!The sea creatures near Haven Bay are acting very strangely, attacking boats, and Alex senses some dark power is controlling them. When he tracks down his friend the water dragon, he finds it's been infected too. If he can't find a way to stop it, the deadly parasite it's carrying could spread throughout the seas. After battling storms, electric eels and an army of angry crabs, Alex realises that the only way he and his team can save the dragon and all their ocean friends is by going inside the dragon...gulp!

Read more less

Book SynopsisSpecies evolve over time to become perfectly adapted to their environments, right?Well, sometimes.Consider that an elephant will not grow a seventh set of teeth, even though wearing down the sixth will condemn it to starvation; that hosts of the European cuckoo seem unable to tell that the overgrown monster in their nest is not their own chick; and that whales are fully aquatic mammals who, millions of years after first abandoning the land, still cannot breathe underwater.This book is about evolution, but not its greatest hits. Instead, it explores everything in the animal kingdom that is self-defeating, ill-made, uneconomical, or downright weird – and explains how natural selection has favoured it. In the grand struggle for survival, some surprising patterns emerge: animals are always slightly out-of-date; inefficiency tends to increase over time; predators usually lose, and parasites usually win. With equal parts humour and scientific insight, Andy Dobson is here to explain the how and why of evolution’s limits and liabilities.Trade Review‘A delightful exploration of the diversity of life and the shortcomings of evolution.’ Dave Goulson, author of A Sting in the Tale and Silent Earth‘A lively, entertaining and highly readable account of natural selection in all its quirky glory.’ Nessa Carey, author of The Epigenetics Revolution and Junk DNA‘A wonderful read – witty and profound, this book upends the usual way of thinking about evolution, instead highlighting the flaws, dead ends and downright nastiness that natural selection produces as it goes on its aimless and morally neutral way.’ E.J. Milner-Gulland, Tasso Leventis Professor of Biodiversity, University of Oxford

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe ultimate photographic guide to over 600 bird species in Canada.Recently updated to reflect all the latest taxonomic data, Birds of Canada is the complete photographic guide to 613 species of birds found in Canada, including the most common species, and rare and vagrant birds.The 436 most commonly seen birds are pictured with plumage variations, and information on similar birds is provided to make differentiation easy, from game birds and waterfowl to shorebirds and swifts to owls, wood warblers, finches, and so many more!Soar into the pages of this brilliant bird-watching book to discover: - Bird profiles with a wealth of information on social behavior, nesting and feeding habits, and flight pattern- Full-color photographs show the adult bird in typical plumage, with male/female, juvenile, and seasonal variations included as appropriate- Up-to-date, color-coded maps highlighting resident and migratory distributions help spo

Read more less

Book SynopsisPreviously published as A History of the Universe in 21 Stars.'A delight and triumph ... A thing of beauty ... Truly, truly magical' talkRADIOLook up on a clear evening, and you'll see thousands of stars shining in the night sky, each telling a story of their own. With star maps to help easily identify key celestial bodies, astronomer Giles Sparrow takes 21 stars (and three imposters) to look at what each pinprick of light can tell us about the birth, life and death of our universe.From red giants to supernovae and from stellar cities to our own Sun, The History of Our Universe in 21 Stars shows how the lights we see in the sky can help us unravel the mysteries of the cosmos.Trade Review'A delight and a triumph ... A thing of beauty ... Truly, truly magical' -- Mark Dolan * talkRADIO *Table of ContentsPolaris • Mizar • 61 Cygni • Aldebaran • Alcyone/The Pleiades • The Trapezium • T Tauri • The Sun • Proxima Centauri • Tau Ceti • Algol • Mira • Sirius A and B • RS Ophiuchi • Betelgeuse • Eta Carinae • The Crab Pulsar • Cygnus X-1 • Omega Centauri • Delta Cephei • Andromeda Nebula • S2 • 3C 48 • Supernova 1944D.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Hidden Histories of Flowers reveals the captivating world of flowers. From the symbolism and meaning behind flowers and how these have evolved over time, to how humans interact with flowers based on cultural and geographical differences, and how flowers have been coveted for their medicinal aspects as well as for their visual merits, The Hidden Histories of Flowers showcases fascinating details of flowers and our relationship with them. If you find yourself wondering about the deeper meanings behind flowers and are keen to investigate their inner workings and place in history, The Hidden Histories of Flowers is the perfect place to begin your exploration.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Truly a definitive guide to animals of all kinds." — MetroFamily Magazine

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Norman Wirzba has done it again: this is—literally and figuratively—the most grounded (and grounding) book I've read in a long age. It will lead you to contemplation, and then, if you're lucky, to change." —Bill McKibben, author of The Comforting Whirlwind"With uncommon depth and breadth, Norman Wirzba’s Agrarian Spirit urges us to embrace and celebrate human and non-human creatures as co-becoming, embodied expressions of God’s creating and sustaining love. He urges us to acknowledge our self-insufficiency and our dependence on others as a gift and as a challenge to develop the nurturing relationships that can heal our world and inspire our hope." —Steve Bell, author of the Pilgrim Year book series"Norman Wirzba's agrarian spiritual exercises reposition us 'down and among' all living things, close to the God who sustains the life of every creature. Agrarian Spirit renews our desire to make a home in this world and to keep faith with the generations coming after us." —Stephanie Paulsell, co-editor of Goodness and the Literary Imagination "If 'incarnate spirituality' sounds like an oxymoron to you, let Norman Wirzba be your guide to the agrarian arts of faith. This book is the culmination of decades of thinking and writing and work, and there is no writer better equipped to articulate how an agrarian sensibility should shape our spiritual practices.” —Jeffrey Bilbro, author of Reading the Times and editor-in-chief at Front Porch Republic“Agrarian Spirit isn’t luddite, nostalgic, or angry. Rather, it’s a gentle, wise, and hopeful call forward, casting a vision for how to live as God’s people in God’s world. I loved this book, and it flooded my imagination with pictures of what the Kingdom of Heaven could be, right now, right in my neighborhood.” —Andrew Peterson, author of The God of the Garden"This is an inspiring synthesis of current ecological thought and spiritual reflection in the Christian tradition. . . . Wirzba acknowledges the difficulties in constructing this vision alongside the spotty record of ecological care in Christianity's past, yet he still finds possibilities within the tradition to create a framework that draws on religious meaning and energy to advocate a holistic, responsively ecological way of living." —Library Journal"There are multiple books on the philosophy and history of American agrarianism, but Norman Wirzba provides—for the first time—a comprehensive 'spirituality' of agrarian consciousness. . . . Wirzba’s book comes at the right moment, pointing us to the shared vulnerability—the deep interconnectedness—that is at the same time our plight and our salvation." —Current"This is an outstanding place to start for both personal and communal work in the redemption of our earthly call to live fully within God’s creation and live wholly in our creaturely selves. . . . Wirzba offers this gift to the church as a way for all of us to cast aside an ideology we may not have known we have, one that puts humans in a singular relationship with God and leaves all the rest of His good creation as merely a backdrop." —Christian Scholar's Review"I knew this would be a good book, and it is. In his typical clear style, Norman Wirzba takes complex philosophical arguments, agrarian practical insights, and solid theological teaching and mixes them together in accessible prose to encourage and challenge readers." —The Christian Century“At its heart, this book is an attempt to prompt readers to think more deeply about themselves as but one creature among many in God’s creation and to live more lovingly and gently in creation as a result. . . . Readers will find this a source of inspiration for pursuing a more bountiful way of life among God’s other creatures.” —Reading Religion"Our current economic habits reveal a vision of the world in which people and creation are disposable capital, to be caught up in the machinery of production and profit. In Agrarian Spirit, Wirzba offers a balm—a restorative perspective that undermines the values of disposability and exploitation." —Englewood Review of Books“Genuine, theologically nuanced and inviting.... Embodying the very dispositions he advocates in the book, Wirzba demonstrates in word and spirit how loving neighbour and place brings one closer to God's loving power, at work in the depths of the world.” —Scottish Theological Journal"Agrarian Spirit makes an important contribution to the church and academy alike. . . . Refreshingly, it is a work to be used as much as read." —International Journal of Systematic Theology"Lush. . . . a teeming garden of theological interlocutors, considerations, and concerns." —Studies in Christian Ethics"With the wisdom of a sage living close to Scripture and the land, and with the motivation of a philosopher analyzing the existential threat of today’s Anthropocene, Norman Wirzba launches readers on a spiritual journey to embrace their creaturehood and awaken to the grace and sanctity of life....A book study group, inside or outside the church, would find Agrarian Spirit a fascinating read that challenges common Gnostic-informed assumptions about spirituality, the Christian faith, and life. For pastors, church educators, and spiritual directors the book provides a wealth of material for developing various sermon series, Bible studies, and spiritual counseling resources that help seekers and people of faith reconnect Christian faith with ecology, economic life, and embodied spirituality.... In a world that seems to be racing towards ecological collapse even as it promises a technology-supported transhumanist future, Wirzba provides a spiritual path to honor and protect our creaturely humanity—no matter what trials and uncertainties the future holds."—Interpretation: A Journal of Bible and TheologyTable of ContentsAcknowledgements Part I – Agrarian Fundamentals 1. On Not Losing Creation 2. Why Agrarian? 3. Placing The Soul Part II – Agrarian Spiritual Exercises 4. Learning to Pray 5. Learning to See 6. Learning Descent 7. Learning Humility 8. Learning Generosity 9. Learning to Hope

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"This visually striking guide honors the beautiful American landscape as it appears today."---Dave Pugl, Library Journal, starred review"[A] volume that must be savored. Turning each page is a delight for birders and nature enthusiasts alike."---Maileen Hamto, Seattle Book Review"This is a book for the naturalist, the scientist, the artist and the dreamer. It has both visual appeal and an important message for everyone. Read it, gaze at the illustrations with wonder and share it with others. Your day will be the better for having done so."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"[A book] that would make a thoughtful gift for a young aspiring writer or artist." * Another Bird Blog *"A sumptuous book, packed full of art and history with a narrative that carries one along like a Mississippi Steamboat."---Bo Beolens, Fat Birder"Glorious watercolours and sketches."---Lorraine Connolly and Hadiyah Ilyas, The Countryman"[A] lovely book."---Mark Gamin, 10,000 Birds"Both fascinating and beautiful, and the mix of history and art is likely to appeal to anyone with an interest in either [nature or art]."---Stephen Menzie, British Birds

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Agile, wryly funny and wise' Robert Macfarlane A search for nearby nature and wildness After years of expeditions all over the world, adventurer Alastair Humphreys spends a year exploring the detailed local map around his home. Can this unassuming landscape, marked by the glow of city lights and the hum of busy roads, hold any surprises for the world traveller or satisfy his wanderlust? Could a single map provide a lifetime of exploration? Discovering more about the natural world than in all his years in remote environments, he learns the value of truly getting to know his neighbourhood. An ode to slowing down, Local is a celebration of curiosity and time spent outdoors, as well as a rallying cry to protect the wild places on our doorstep.Trade Review"Agile, wryly funny and wise." - Robert Macfarlane 'Alastair Humphreys is the consummate roamer: big of heart, curious of mind, light of step' - Amy-Jane Beer, winner of the 2023 Wainwright Prize 'A paean to the benefits of determined noticing. What really shines through its pages is Humphreys' omnivorous curiosity' Financial Times 'Thanks to some genuinely thoughtful writing about planet, place and political purpose, Humphreys finds beauty in the scruffy margins and makes readers look anew at what might easily be familiar or forgotten' The Observer 'A vivid, wry, angry, passionate read from Mr Adventure' Saga Magazine 'I wholeheartedly recommend the book. Anything that establishes the view that exploration is an attitude, not an activity, has to be a good thing. The physical bounds of our children will be smaller than ours. It is up to us to show that by rewilding the mind and finding adventure in the commonplace, a life constrained by necessity is still a life worth living' Chris Gibson Wildlife 'Witty and gritty, affectionate and mildly censorious, eager and sometimes weary. This is still a book of a traveller and adventurer - it's just he can cycle home quite quickly each day. Readable, well-written, stimulating' Mark Avery

Read more less

Book SynopsisIllustrated throughout with 200 outstanding colour photographs, Endangered Animals presents an in-depth look at around 100 species of animal from around the world, all of which are currently endangered or threatened according to the annual list drawn up by the World Conservation Union (IUCN). The selection spans a broad spectrum of wildlife, from large, charismatic mammals such as the Bengal tiger to lesser-known species such as New Zealand’s kakapo, the world’s only flightless parrot, which was once presumed to be extinct. Each continent is covered, with examples carefully drawn from every habitat – from the mysterious aye-aye of Madagascar’s shrinking rainforest, to the shy spectacled bear of the high Andes. Arranged geographically, each photographic entry is supported by a fascinating caption, which explains the animal’s current plight and whether it is critically endangered or classified as vulnerable. From the Ethiopian wolf to the Bengal tiger to monk seal and dugong, Endangered Animals is a fascinating introduction to some of the most threatened species on the planet.Table of ContentsContents Introduction AFRICA 1. Addax 2. African Elephant 3. African Wild Ass 4. African Wild Dog 5. Aye-Aye 6. Black Rhino 7. Chimpanzee 8. Ethiopian Wolf 9. Mountain Gorilla 10. Nano-chameleon — Brookesia nana 11. Okapi 12. Crowned sifaka 13. Secretarybird — Sagittarius serpentarius 14. Mandrill 15. Shoebill 16. Leopard 17. Pygmy Hippopotamus Choeropsis liberiensis 18. Nile Lechwe Kobus megaceros 19. Cheetah 20. Giraffe ASIA & AUSTRALIA Arabian Oryx Asiatic Elephant Asiatic Lion Bactarian Camel Clouded Leopard Double-wattled Cassowary Giant Panda Huon Tree Kangaroo Kakapo Kiwi Lion-tailed Macaque Long Footed Potoroo Malleefowl Numbat Orangutan Red Panda Siberian Tiger Snow Leopard Sumatran Rhino Tiger Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle Rafetus swinhoei Malay tapir Indian Vulture Gyps indicus Red crowned crane Painted terrapin Siamese crocodile Red slender loris Purple faced langur Chinese crocodile lizard Caspian seal Black crested gibbon Golden snub-nosed monkey Banteng Bos javanicus Philippine eagle Rufous-headed Hornbill Przewalski's Horse Equus ferus Baiji Lipotes vexillifer Pangolin Dhole Pika Visayan Warty Pig Sus cebifrons NORTH AMERICA 1. Californian Condor 2. Black-footed Ferret 3. West Indian Manatee 4. Great Prairie Chicken 5. Desert Tortoise 6. West Indian Manatee 7. Vancouver Island Marmot Marmota vancouverensis SOUTH AND CENTRAL AMERICA 1. Spectacled Bear 2. Giant Otter 3. Chinchilla 4. Macaroni Penguin 5. Flightless Cormorant 6. Golden Lion Tamarin 7. Brown Spider monkey 8. Muriqui 9. Andean cat 10. Andean night monkey 11. Imperial Amazon 12. Cuban crocodile 13. Darwin’s fox 14. Chacoan peccary 15. Northern pudu 16. Sooty albatross 17. White-throated toucan 18. Amazon river dolphin 19. Mexican agouti EUROPE European bison Mediterranean Monk Seal Great Bustard European Sturgeon Red-Breasted Goose Saiga Ivory-billed Woodpecker Campephilus principalis Steppe eagle Iberian lynx THE WORLD’S OCEANS Blue Whale Right Whale Great White Shark Leatherback Turtle Dugong Sea Otter Giant Tortoise Polar Bear Beluga Rodrigues Flying Fox Pteropus rodricensis Sperm whale Harbour porpoise Hector's dolphin Marine iguana Whale shark Ocean sunfish Bluefin tuna Seahorse

Read more less

Book SynopsisThese handmade birdhouses and feeders, bee hotels, and butterfly and ladybird homes will bring welcome visitors to your garden. Handmade Houses and Feeders for Birds, Bees, and Butterflies features 35 beautiful havens to build to attract more wildlife into your garden. Each house is beautifully designed, with colourful details, but is also perfectly adapted for its intended inhabitants. There are birdhouses you can hang up or place on stands, and a bee house you can 'plant' in your flowerbed. There are also feeders for birds, and homes for butterflies and ladybirds. With her trademark attention to detail, Michele McKee-Orsini has designed a gorgeous collection of miniature palaces for the wildlife that we should all be encouraging into our gardens. Michele takes you through the basic woodworking and decorating skills you will need, and the step-by-step project instructions, clear artwork, and stunning photography will all inspire you to build your own havens for our flying friends.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhen Joanne Lefson took on a piglet at her animal shelter, the young sow proceeded to eat everything in her stable but a paint brush. In a flash of inspiration, Joanne attempted to introduce the pig to the art of painting - and thus Pigcasso was born. Starting out with a humble canvas on the sanctuary wall, Pigcasso's paintings are now owned by the likes of George Clooney, she has a Swatch watch design partnership, a wine label, and has eclipsed the previous world record holder for animal art. She's been commissioned by Nissan and has had exhibitions in Cape Town, Munich and Amsterdam. More than that, Pigcasso's art funds the food and veterinary services for all the animals at the sanctuary.Pigcasso is the story of this unique pig and of the circumstances that brought her and Joanne together to take the art world by storm and form a unique and unbreakable bond.

Read more less

Book Synopsis___ Live a life in step with the seasons. In this enchanting book, Rebecca Beattie – a Wiccan priestess who has practised witchcraft for over twenty years – takes us on a magical journey around the Wheel of the Year. Every six weeks, from the Spring Equinox to the Summer Solstice, from the Autumn Equinox to Imbolc, these restorative moments in nature’s cycle offer a moment to pause and reflect, to reconnect with the seasons and ourselves. The Wheel of the Year is alive with the ebb and flow of the natural world, full of nurturing rituals, rejuvenating wisdom and journal prompts to help you sow seeds of change and thrive. ‘Warm, friendly… Encourages us to pause, rather than rush headlong through life. It's a way to make time and space to really experience the world around us.’ Resurgence & Ecologist ‘An enchanting celebration of eight restorative moments in nature’s cycle’ Caught by the RiverTrade ReviewAs heard on Lauren Laverne’s BBC Radio 6 ‘Supernature’ 'A powerful concoction of poems, spells, incantations and rituals' Resurgence & Ecologist ‘A sensitive and poetic work, full of anecdote and poignant self-disclosure’ The Enquiring Eye ‘A great guidebook to assist one to live life in step with the seasons of nature’ Pagan Pages  ‘A lovely volume, beautifully written and full of inspiring ways to develop a nature-based spiritual path’ A Bad Witch’s Blog ‘An enchanting celebration of eight restorative moments in nature’s cycle’ Caught by the River ‘This book will be of interest to many who appreciate nature and the changing seasons’ The Countryman The Bookseller – Editor’s Choice ‘It’s a book to help you connect with your world, the seasons and nature and to yourself’ Netgalley reader

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review...a comprehensive and fascinating insight for all into the lives of these enigmatic creatures.—GeoscientistThis technical book gives a detailed and substantial taxon-by-taxon overview of what dinosaur skulls, jaws, and teeth reveal about what, but especially how dinosaurs ate. This is a welcome survey of an otherwise scattered literature that will be invaluable for specialists.—The Inquisitive BiologistTable of ContentsAcknowledgements1. Early Dinosaur Feeding Studies and an Introduction to Mesozoic Landscapes and Dietary Ecology2. Bones, Teeth, Muscle, and the Study of Functional Morphology3. An Overview of Dinosaur Anatomy4. Early Dinosaurs and Non-Tetanuran Theropods5. Early Tetanuran, Spinosaurid, and Allosauroid Theropods6. Early Coelurosaurian and Tyrannosauroid Theropods7. Maniraptoriform Theropods8. Early Sauropodomorphs and the Rise of Sauropods9. Neosauropods10. Heterodontosaurids and Early Thyreophorans11. Eurypodans12. Early Neornithischians and Ornithopods13. Marginocephalians14. Shaping Dinosaur EcosystemsBibliography

Read more less

Book SynopsisA BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED LOOK AT THE LIVES AND MIND-BOGGLING BEHAVIOURS OF INSECTSHow to Read an Insect takes you on an unforgettable tour of the insect world, presenting these amazing creatures as you have never seen them before.This stunningly illustrated guide puts a wealth of fascinating behaviours under the microscope – from elegant displays of courtship to brutal acts of predation. Along the way, Ross Piper charts the evolution of insects and reveals everything you need to know about how they nest, feed, reproduce and defend themselves. He concludes by discussing the impact of the human world on insects, and what we can do to prevent their decline in numbers.• Explores the remarkable lifestyles of exotic insects as well as those in your own garden.• Includes highlights from a wide range of new insect behaviour studies.• Features a wealth of breathtaking colour photos, illustrations, and graphics.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBrilliant flowers, vines of every stripe, glorious gardens galore, and more—Beautiful Blooms just begs for you to dive in and add your own spin on this bounty of blooms. Offering a wide range of gorgeous designs and scenes for you to personalize, these 120-plus stunning templates are perfect for relaxing after a serious session of weeding—or let them inspire you during the coldest months of the year. Whether you have a green thumb—or you just wish you did—you can get your garden on and find your inner peace as you bring to life lush summer gardens and birds spreading their wings. Engage your mind and imagine a light spring breeze as you focus on the task at hand and color the intricate patterns, flowers and foliage, stamens and pistils, and all manner of garden visitors, from butterflies to bumblebees. Each piece of art is line drawn and ideal for colored

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Longlisted for the Non-Obvious Book Awards""The subtitle says it all—Bjornerud and graphic artist Hagerman have compiled a wonderfully quirky collection of 'curiosities' that, collectively, detail the Earth’s transformation over eons and illustrate how our understanding of the planet has deepened through time. . . . A charming work, chock-full of information."---Laurie Selwyn, Library Journal, starred review"This is a garnet of a geology book: rooted in the planet, jewel-like and multi-coloured."---Andrew Robinson, Nature"[Geopedia] is a buffet of bite-size chapters perfect for dipping in and out of. . . . Its pocket-size format makes it perfect as a traveling companion, and its short chapters suit our frazzled attention spans, making it a fun alternative to night-time doomscrolling or heavier nonfiction. No matter if you’re a hard-core rockhound or a geological outsider, you’ll get something worthwhile from this little gem of a book."---Howard Lee, Ars Technica"A neat little book . . . . Take a dip into Geopedia for a bit of quirky fun." * Descent *"A fascinating, illuminating read. Organized alphabetically, the articles span the gamut of the sub-disciplines. Bjornerud explores both the etymology of the scientific terms and their scientific import. Readers who pick it up will learn a lot."---I. D. Sasowsky, Choice"perfect for casual reading .... Bjornerud...is a gifted writer" * Choice *"A cute little book of curiosities to dip in and out of but, like a box of rich chocolates, you probably will not want to finish it off all in one sitting."---Helen Coombs, Proceedings of the Open University Geological Society

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn exquisite, lovingly crafted meditation on plants, trees, and our place in the natural worldTrade Review“With . . . tender attentiveness to the non-human, [this] narrative speaks of more compassionate and resilient modes of existence than those devised by the perennially agitated makers of history.”—Pankaj Mishra, The Guardian, “Summer Reading”“Sumana Roy has written—grown—a radiant and wondrous book, which roots and branches in complex, provocative ways, helping us recognize trees for the ‘strange strangers’ they are, companion-citizens with which we think and remember, yes, but also alien beings that draw love, hate, indifference, and even lust from us humans.”—Robert Macfarlane, author of The Old Ways: A Journey on Foot“This is one of the most original, delightful, inspiring books I have read in a long time. It will enchant and move the reader with its unique imaginative mindset, its humorous touches, and its defiance of convention.”—Mary Evelyn Tucker, Yale University“A poetic, probing meditation on how trees are, to paraphrase Lévi-Strauss, ‘good to think with.’ Sumana Roy gives us a fresh and surprising look at a topic as old as the Epic of Gilgamesh, or to put it another way, almost as old as the oldest living trees.”—Robert Moor, bestselling author of On Trails: An Exploration“A genuinely exceptional work that is as poetic as it is scholarly—quirky, enlightening and enriching.”—Chandak Sengoopta, Birbeck College, University of LondonPraise for Sumana Roy: “A one-of-its-kind meditation. . . . Deliciously engaging.”—Supriya Sharma, Hindustan Times “Sumana Roy’s writing brims with rare originality.”—Areeb Ahmad, The Medley “An ode to all that is unnoticed, ill, neglected and yet resilient. . . . Roy’s true spiritual ancestor . . . is Annie Dillard. . . . Both Roy and Dillard craft remarkable, poignant sentences. Both have the ability to make mundane situations lead up to profound, even apocalyptic consequences.”—Rini Barman, Wire India “Sumana Roy’s book shimmers like silver poplar leaves.”—Sylvia Straube, Frankfurter Rundschau “A book like a jungle: from the wide sky to sticky leaves and unsightly thorns, everything is included.”—Susanne Billig, Deutschlandfunk Kultur

Read more less

Book Synopsis“Let us teach the humans about the horror of cats!” They may seem cute and cuddly (okay, they definitely are), but this secret society of cats is up to no good! Under the direction of the purple-caped General, The Evil Secret Society of Cats schemes against humanity in a series of hilarious plots as adorable as they are diabolical. Can these cats effectively terrorise the humans, or are they doomed to be petted rather than feared? Don’t miss this full-colour manga tale of sweet but sinister shenanigans!

Read more less

Book Synopsis'I thought I knew quite a bit about earthworms – until I picked up this charming little book' Nick Baker 'Many wonderful wormy tales unearthed by Coulthard' BBC Countryfile Magazine 'A gem of a book' Country Smallholding Without these little engineers of the earth, the world's soils would be barren, and our gardens and fields wouldn't be able to grow the food we need to survive. Worms recycle decaying plants, putting nutrients back into the soil; they provide a food source for wildlife; and their constant burrowing helps heavy rain soak away. Sally Coulthard's fascianting guide offers a wealth of information and practical advice about the world's msot industrious but little understood creature.Trade ReviewI thought I knew quite a bit about earthworms – until I picked up this charming little book... This is an easily digestible compendium of everything earthworm' -- Nick BakerSally Coulthard profiles these misunderstood creatures, offering a feast of quirky facts to answer all your curiosities * Grow Your Own *A jaunt through the life of the earthworm... A gem of a book' * Country Smallholding *Many wonderful wormy tales unearthed by Coulthard... [A] smart little book' * BBC Countryfile Magazine *A complete profile of earthworms by answering 50 questions and including practical advice and quirky facts * Garden Answers *A brilliant and detailed book on the vital role earthworms play in our gardens and fields, with a wealth of information on these hard-working and misunderstood creatures * Gardens Illustrated *

Read more less

Book SynopsisOrganic cattle farming is on the increase, with consumer demand for organic milk and meat growing yearly. Beginning with an overview of the aims and principles behind organic cattle production, this book presents extensive information about how to feed cattle so that the milk and meat produced meet organic standards, and provides a comprehensive summary of ruminant digestive processes and nutrition. Since the publication of the first edition, global consumers have increasingly become concerned with the sustainability of meat production. Here, Robert Blair considers the interrelationships of sustainable practices and profitability of organic herds, reviewing how to improve forage production and quality, and minimizing the need for supplementary feeding using off-farm ingredients. This new edition also covers: - Managing a recurrent shortage of organic feed ingredients, due to increased GM feed crop cultivation worldwide - Current findings on appropriate breeds and grazing systems for forage-based organic production - Diet-related health issues in organic herds and the effects of organic production on meat and milk quality. Required reading for animal science researchers, advisory personnel that service the organic milk and beef industries and students interested in organic milk and meat production, this book is also a useful resource for organic farming associations, veterinarians, and feed and food industry personnel.Table of Contents1: Introduction and Background 2: Aims and Principles of Organic Cattle Production 3: Elements of Cattle Nutrition 4: Ingredients for Organic Diets 5: Breeds for Organic Production 6: Integrating Feeding Programmes into Organic Production Systems 7: Conclusions and Recommendations for the Future

Read more less