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Fishing, Birdwatching & Other Outdoor Pursuits
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 Customer Reviews
Survival is for the fittest, or those who read this book. , 05 Apr 2008
This little book could save your life, seriously. Though it is obviously aimed towards people with a predilection towards outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain climbing, sailing (etc) it does also make a point of saying that you never know when this information may come in handy. Written by a former member of the SAS, who would be the ultimate authority in extreme survival, this book is full of practical information on how to survive anywhere in the world. It details information like how to find a source of water, or create one yourself, how to treat injuries, how to make a shelter, ways to stave off dehydration, what plant forms are edible. It is a very long list because the book is full of no-nonsense information. If you are interested in outdoor pursuits this is a book that should definitely be read, or for any other reason this book contains information that could save your life.
SAS Survival, 26 Jan 2008
For the price this book is well worth the money. It is a reliable guide to survival in the great out doors. The ammount of knowledge I have accumalated from this small book is amazing. The author, John Wiseman of the SAS greats is enough to make you want to buy it.
Survive- anywhere., 18 Jan 2008
No need for a long review here. This book was written by a professional soldier who was in the SAS, or the Special Air Service. For those not in the know, that's an elite unit of the British Army trained to carry out operations in ALL parts of the world. Eventually, the author became a survival instructor to the SAS, so you can be sure that this guy knows his stuff.
The book covers all you'd ever want to know about the essentials of surviving in climates such as: the polar region, mountains, seashores, islands, tropical regions, or even at sea. Here's few of the many topics the book covers:
-food, what you can and can't eat
-animal tracking with numerous pics
-color pics of edible plants
-pictures of traps and how to trap things
-how to handle animals you've killed for food
-how to make a camp and various shelters
-knot tying pics
-first aid
-color pics of medicinal plants
-picures of dangerous/poisonous critters
-things to have in a survival kit
A very handy resource for anybody who enjoys outdoor/wilderness activities, it's just a darn good thing to have around in case of emergencies- or even just to look at the pictures! Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff if you have a shoulder problem that is interfering with your outdoor activities.
its that good, 25 Dec 2007
yes folks i bought one of these and i was impressed so much so i bought another one to stay in my webbing, it is a must have!!!!!!!
WOW!, 08 Aug 2007
This book is a must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It covers every thing you could know about Survival it's great.
Inside you find These Topics Essentials, Climate And Terrain, Food, Camp Craft, Reading The Signs, On The Move, Survival at sea, Rescue, Health, and Disaster Strategies!
It's a survival Bible!
BUY IT NOW, Because I give A 100% chance of Surviving if you have this book with you, I mean it even has Morse Code!
This book is years of Expert Knowledge In one and it will never Bore you there's some thing new and exciting on every new page.
Buy it! When you read it you will want to try the Practice Right away!
Have fun
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Customer Reviews
Survival is for the fittest, or those who read this book. , 05 Apr 2008
This little book could save your life, seriously. Though it is obviously aimed towards people with a predilection towards outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain climbing, sailing (etc) it does also make a point of saying that you never know when this information may come in handy. Written by a former member of the SAS, who would be the ultimate authority in extreme survival, this book is full of practical information on how to survive anywhere in the world. It details information like how to find a source of water, or create one yourself, how to treat injuries, how to make a shelter, ways to stave off dehydration, what plant forms are edible. It is a very long list because the book is full of no-nonsense information. If you are interested in outdoor pursuits this is a book that should definitely be read, or for any other reason this book contains information that could save your life.
SAS Survival, 26 Jan 2008
For the price this book is well worth the money. It is a reliable guide to survival in the great out doors. The ammount of knowledge I have accumalated from this small book is amazing. The author, John Wiseman of the SAS greats is enough to make you want to buy it.
Survive- anywhere., 18 Jan 2008
No need for a long review here. This book was written by a professional soldier who was in the SAS, or the Special Air Service. For those not in the know, that's an elite unit of the British Army trained to carry out operations in ALL parts of the world. Eventually, the author became a survival instructor to the SAS, so you can be sure that this guy knows his stuff.
The book covers all you'd ever want to know about the essentials of surviving in climates such as: the polar region, mountains, seashores, islands, tropical regions, or even at sea. Here's few of the many topics the book covers:
-food, what you can and can't eat
-animal tracking with numerous pics
-color pics of edible plants
-pictures of traps and how to trap things
-how to handle animals you've killed for food
-how to make a camp and various shelters
-knot tying pics
-first aid
-color pics of medicinal plants
-picures of dangerous/poisonous critters
-things to have in a survival kit
A very handy resource for anybody who enjoys outdoor/wilderness activities, it's just a darn good thing to have around in case of emergencies- or even just to look at the pictures! Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff if you have a shoulder problem that is interfering with your outdoor activities.
its that good, 25 Dec 2007
yes folks i bought one of these and i was impressed so much so i bought another one to stay in my webbing, it is a must have!!!!!!!
WOW!, 08 Aug 2007
This book is a must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It covers every thing you could know about Survival it's great.
Inside you find These Topics Essentials, Climate And Terrain, Food, Camp Craft, Reading The Signs, On The Move, Survival at sea, Rescue, Health, and Disaster Strategies!
It's a survival Bible!
BUY IT NOW, Because I give A 100% chance of Surviving if you have this book with you, I mean it even has Morse Code!
This book is years of Expert Knowledge In one and it will never Bore you there's some thing new and exciting on every new page.
Buy it! When you read it you will want to try the Practice Right away!
Have fun
Brilliant writing - subtle and effective, 18 Sep 2008
Maybe Robert Macfarlane and Jay Griffiths should be forced to read this book, because without a single overdressed metaphor, without a single unnecessary word of any kind, it tells a series of subtle, clear and profoundly moving stories. It's a delight to meet Spike, and Chicken, and the other birds who soar and wing through the pages, the rhythmical, shapely pages. Envy! I wish I'd written this. Observation wonderful. Interesting that birds are so despised. I read this because having kept chickens I've also come to know and feed jackdaws and rooks, and all three kinds of bird are so bright and so interesting that I simply can't see why we once despised them. I shall read the sequel, if any.
SUPERB, BRILLIANT, FUNNY, 26 Aug 2008
This book should be read by everyone and anyone who has ever had a pet. It's funny stories and anecdotes about the author's life with birds are charming and moving. I couldn't put it down.
Funny, informative, a must buy!!!, 21 Aug 2008
The main theme of Corvus is the story of a baby rook owned by the autor but it also concerns broader subjects such as natural history and wild birds.
The parts about Woolfsons pet birds are a funny and touching potrait of a family and their pets, a little remeniscent of "my family and other animals".
The parts about natural history are more serious and require concentration but well worth it particularly the parts discussing birds relationship to dinosaurs.
I really loved this and hope that Esther Woolfson writes more of the same.
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Customer Reviews
Survival is for the fittest, or those who read this book. , 05 Apr 2008
This little book could save your life, seriously. Though it is obviously aimed towards people with a predilection towards outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain climbing, sailing (etc) it does also make a point of saying that you never know when this information may come in handy. Written by a former member of the SAS, who would be the ultimate authority in extreme survival, this book is full of practical information on how to survive anywhere in the world. It details information like how to find a source of water, or create one yourself, how to treat injuries, how to make a shelter, ways to stave off dehydration, what plant forms are edible. It is a very long list because the book is full of no-nonsense information. If you are interested in outdoor pursuits this is a book that should definitely be read, or for any other reason this book contains information that could save your life.
SAS Survival, 26 Jan 2008
For the price this book is well worth the money. It is a reliable guide to survival in the great out doors. The ammount of knowledge I have accumalated from this small book is amazing. The author, John Wiseman of the SAS greats is enough to make you want to buy it.
Survive- anywhere., 18 Jan 2008
No need for a long review here. This book was written by a professional soldier who was in the SAS, or the Special Air Service. For those not in the know, that's an elite unit of the British Army trained to carry out operations in ALL parts of the world. Eventually, the author became a survival instructor to the SAS, so you can be sure that this guy knows his stuff.
The book covers all you'd ever want to know about the essentials of surviving in climates such as: the polar region, mountains, seashores, islands, tropical regions, or even at sea. Here's few of the many topics the book covers:
-food, what you can and can't eat
-animal tracking with numerous pics
-color pics of edible plants
-pictures of traps and how to trap things
-how to handle animals you've killed for food
-how to make a camp and various shelters
-knot tying pics
-first aid
-color pics of medicinal plants
-picures of dangerous/poisonous critters
-things to have in a survival kit
A very handy resource for anybody who enjoys outdoor/wilderness activities, it's just a darn good thing to have around in case of emergencies- or even just to look at the pictures! Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff if you have a shoulder problem that is interfering with your outdoor activities.
its that good, 25 Dec 2007
yes folks i bought one of these and i was impressed so much so i bought another one to stay in my webbing, it is a must have!!!!!!!
WOW!, 08 Aug 2007
This book is a must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It covers every thing you could know about Survival it's great.
Inside you find These Topics Essentials, Climate And Terrain, Food, Camp Craft, Reading The Signs, On The Move, Survival at sea, Rescue, Health, and Disaster Strategies!
It's a survival Bible!
BUY IT NOW, Because I give A 100% chance of Surviving if you have this book with you, I mean it even has Morse Code!
This book is years of Expert Knowledge In one and it will never Bore you there's some thing new and exciting on every new page.
Buy it! When you read it you will want to try the Practice Right away!
Have fun
Brilliant writing - subtle and effective, 18 Sep 2008
Maybe Robert Macfarlane and Jay Griffiths should be forced to read this book, because without a single overdressed metaphor, without a single unnecessary word of any kind, it tells a series of subtle, clear and profoundly moving stories. It's a delight to meet Spike, and Chicken, and the other birds who soar and wing through the pages, the rhythmical, shapely pages. Envy! I wish I'd written this. Observation wonderful. Interesting that birds are so despised. I read this because having kept chickens I've also come to know and feed jackdaws and rooks, and all three kinds of bird are so bright and so interesting that I simply can't see why we once despised them. I shall read the sequel, if any.
SUPERB, BRILLIANT, FUNNY, 26 Aug 2008
This book should be read by everyone and anyone who has ever had a pet. It's funny stories and anecdotes about the author's life with birds are charming and moving. I couldn't put it down.
Funny, informative, a must buy!!!, 21 Aug 2008
The main theme of Corvus is the story of a baby rook owned by the autor but it also concerns broader subjects such as natural history and wild birds.
The parts about Woolfsons pet birds are a funny and touching potrait of a family and their pets, a little remeniscent of "my family and other animals".
The parts about natural history are more serious and require concentration but well worth it particularly the parts discussing birds relationship to dinosaurs.
I really loved this and hope that Esther Woolfson writes more of the same.
The Passionate Angler, 27 Sep 2008
Maurice Wiggin's book, The Passionate Angler inspired the world-class BBC series, A Passion for Angling, in which Chris Yates starred. The success of this film catapulted this quiet, modest man into the limelight, and into the homes of anglers and non-anglers alike. It opened up a whole new world of exploration for him, and when Penguin/Hamish Hamilton published 'How to Fish' in 2006, it became an overnight success.
'Out of the Blue' published by Hamish Hamilton on the 4th September, 2008, looks set to outstrip 'How to Fish' in terms of sales. The book is already on its 2nd print run, which might come as a surprise to people who previously saw Chris as a coarse fisherman, because this wonderful new book is about sea fishing; bass in particular.
It's not an instructional book; it's a journey through the hot summers of school holidays spent rock-pooling with his brother; of becoming stranded on rocks and almost being washed out to sea; of his return and rediscovery of childhood haunts, and the thrill of catching, then releasing his beautiful bass to the mysterious depths of the ocean.
Chris's mastery of prose is unrivalled in the world of angling, and those who have previously read his books will not be disappointed by this latest gem. When asked recently which was his favourite book, he replied, 'this one.' It is certainly his latest passion but it goes beyond that, because in an interview with Charlotte Cross of Lantern Radio, North Devon, he expressed concern over the commercial fishing of bass, and warned of its potential demise.
Out of the Blue is an evocatively written book - read it and you'll smell the sea, feel the warm sun on your back and hear the waves crashing against the rocks. Your eyes will search an imaginary horizon for a glimpse of the magnificent bass, and who knows, it may stir readers enough to take a closer look at what is happening to the fish stocks in our coastal waters.
Above all, read and enjoy Chris's latest mastercast; I did, and if for some reason you can't go down to the sea right now, read 'Out of the Blue,' for it will surely take you there.
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Customer Reviews
Survival is for the fittest, or those who read this book. , 05 Apr 2008
This little book could save your life, seriously. Though it is obviously aimed towards people with a predilection towards outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain climbing, sailing (etc) it does also make a point of saying that you never know when this information may come in handy. Written by a former member of the SAS, who would be the ultimate authority in extreme survival, this book is full of practical information on how to survive anywhere in the world. It details information like how to find a source of water, or create one yourself, how to treat injuries, how to make a shelter, ways to stave off dehydration, what plant forms are edible. It is a very long list because the book is full of no-nonsense information. If you are interested in outdoor pursuits this is a book that should definitely be read, or for any other reason this book contains information that could save your life.
SAS Survival, 26 Jan 2008
For the price this book is well worth the money. It is a reliable guide to survival in the great out doors. The ammount of knowledge I have accumalated from this small book is amazing. The author, John Wiseman of the SAS greats is enough to make you want to buy it.
Survive- anywhere., 18 Jan 2008
No need for a long review here. This book was written by a professional soldier who was in the SAS, or the Special Air Service. For those not in the know, that's an elite unit of the British Army trained to carry out operations in ALL parts of the world. Eventually, the author became a survival instructor to the SAS, so you can be sure that this guy knows his stuff.
The book covers all you'd ever want to know about the essentials of surviving in climates such as: the polar region, mountains, seashores, islands, tropical regions, or even at sea. Here's few of the many topics the book covers:
-food, what you can and can't eat
-animal tracking with numerous pics
-color pics of edible plants
-pictures of traps and how to trap things
-how to handle animals you've killed for food
-how to make a camp and various shelters
-knot tying pics
-first aid
-color pics of medicinal plants
-picures of dangerous/poisonous critters
-things to have in a survival kit
A very handy resource for anybody who enjoys outdoor/wilderness activities, it's just a darn good thing to have around in case of emergencies- or even just to look at the pictures! Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff if you have a shoulder problem that is interfering with your outdoor activities.
its that good, 25 Dec 2007
yes folks i bought one of these and i was impressed so much so i bought another one to stay in my webbing, it is a must have!!!!!!!
WOW!, 08 Aug 2007
This book is a must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It covers every thing you could know about Survival it's great.
Inside you find These Topics Essentials, Climate And Terrain, Food, Camp Craft, Reading The Signs, On The Move, Survival at sea, Rescue, Health, and Disaster Strategies!
It's a survival Bible!
BUY IT NOW, Because I give A 100% chance of Surviving if you have this book with you, I mean it even has Morse Code!
This book is years of Expert Knowledge In one and it will never Bore you there's some thing new and exciting on every new page.
Buy it! When you read it you will want to try the Practice Right away!
Have fun
Brilliant writing - subtle and effective, 18 Sep 2008
Maybe Robert Macfarlane and Jay Griffiths should be forced to read this book, because without a single overdressed metaphor, without a single unnecessary word of any kind, it tells a series of subtle, clear and profoundly moving stories. It's a delight to meet Spike, and Chicken, and the other birds who soar and wing through the pages, the rhythmical, shapely pages. Envy! I wish I'd written this. Observation wonderful. Interesting that birds are so despised. I read this because having kept chickens I've also come to know and feed jackdaws and rooks, and all three kinds of bird are so bright and so interesting that I simply can't see why we once despised them. I shall read the sequel, if any.
SUPERB, BRILLIANT, FUNNY, 26 Aug 2008
This book should be read by everyone and anyone who has ever had a pet. It's funny stories and anecdotes about the author's life with birds are charming and moving. I couldn't put it down.
Funny, informative, a must buy!!!, 21 Aug 2008
The main theme of Corvus is the story of a baby rook owned by the autor but it also concerns broader subjects such as natural history and wild birds.
The parts about Woolfsons pet birds are a funny and touching potrait of a family and their pets, a little remeniscent of "my family and other animals".
The parts about natural history are more serious and require concentration but well worth it particularly the parts discussing birds relationship to dinosaurs.
I really loved this and hope that Esther Woolfson writes more of the same.
The Passionate Angler, 27 Sep 2008
Maurice Wiggin's book, The Passionate Angler inspired the world-class BBC series, A Passion for Angling, in which Chris Yates starred. The success of this film catapulted this quiet, modest man into the limelight, and into the homes of anglers and non-anglers alike. It opened up a whole new world of exploration for him, and when Penguin/Hamish Hamilton published 'How to Fish' in 2006, it became an overnight success.
'Out of the Blue' published by Hamish Hamilton on the 4th September, 2008, looks set to outstrip 'How to Fish' in terms of sales. The book is already on its 2nd print run, which might come as a surprise to people who previously saw Chris as a coarse fisherman, because this wonderful new book is about sea fishing; bass in particular.
It's not an instructional book; it's a journey through the hot summers of school holidays spent rock-pooling with his brother; of becoming stranded on rocks and almost being washed out to sea; of his return and rediscovery of childhood haunts, and the thrill of catching, then releasing his beautiful bass to the mysterious depths of the ocean.
Chris's mastery of prose is unrivalled in the world of angling, and those who have previously read his books will not be disappointed by this latest gem. When asked recently which was his favourite book, he replied, 'this one.' It is certainly his latest passion but it goes beyond that, because in an interview with Charlotte Cross of Lantern Radio, North Devon, he expressed concern over the commercial fishing of bass, and warned of its potential demise.
Out of the Blue is an evocatively written book - read it and you'll smell the sea, feel the warm sun on your back and hear the waves crashing against the rocks. Your eyes will search an imaginary horizon for a glimpse of the magnificent bass, and who knows, it may stir readers enough to take a closer look at what is happening to the fish stocks in our coastal waters.
Above all, read and enjoy Chris's latest mastercast; I did, and if for some reason you can't go down to the sea right now, read 'Out of the Blue,' for it will surely take you there.
Birds - lots of feathers, 13 Apr 2008
I bought this book to identify the little blighters who hop and fly merrily around my garden. It's a great book with good images and text. The only bird book you'll ever need.
BRILLIANT BOOK!, 25 Mar 2008
I cannot recommend this book khighly enough. I have being birding for 25 years and have amassed a collection of c60 bird books on European birds. This is equal to 50 of them TOGETHER! The illustrations and descriptions are excellent. Many books carry detailed descriptions and photographs on birds in winter plumage and then state that they are summer visitors (or vice versa)! This book is invaluable and ever birder should have at least one copy
First class field guide, 23 Jan 2008
An excellent field guide with brilliant drawings of all the birds in their different plumages. Really does help when identifying rare birds or ones which you are unsure of.
Best bird guide ever!!!!, 29 Oct 2007
The best field guide I have ever owned. Beautiful illustrations and ideal text (plus illustrations and text on opposite pages!!!). It is also comprehensive and features many 'common' vagrants too. If you are a serious European based birder or wildlife enthusiast then quite simply you need this book.
Its scope and detail may prove off-putting to beginners but trust me its worth every penny!
The best field guide currently available for the birds of Europe., 31 Aug 2007
In short - if you want an identification guide to European birds this is easily the best available to date.
On the cover it says 'The most complete field guide to the birds of Britain and Europe' and (at least at the present time) this is certainly true. The book is a little large to fit in most pockets - but all birdwatchers should be encouraged to carry a field notebook anyway (leave this book in the car, or at home or your hotel!) - if you do want to carry a guide with you it will fit in some large coat pockets, or easily into a backpack.
The illustrations, which are on the page facing the text and maps for each species, are excellent and show the birds in a variety of different positions (often including in flight), and illustrate all of the different plumages that are likely to be encountered. Important features are highlighted on the ilustrations by means of text captions and pointers.
The text is concise and contains all the most important information on identification and size, including verbal descriptions of songs and calls (often calls confirm an otherwise uncertain bird identification). Anyone who is not used to bird guides, and the birds themselves, will probably find that the phonetics mean very little - however if you have already heard the species being described they form an accurate reminder.
Anyone who uses a PDA may wish to consider the e-guide version, which has all the ilustrations and information from the book + recordings of the birds songs and calls - personally I find a book and CD (or MP3 files) easier!!
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Customer Reviews
Survival is for the fittest, or those who read this book. , 05 Apr 2008
This little book could save your life, seriously. Though it is obviously aimed towards people with a predilection towards outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain climbing, sailing (etc) it does also make a point of saying that you never know when this information may come in handy. Written by a former member of the SAS, who would be the ultimate authority in extreme survival, this book is full of practical information on how to survive anywhere in the world. It details information like how to find a source of water, or create one yourself, how to treat injuries, how to make a shelter, ways to stave off dehydration, what plant forms are edible. It is a very long list because the book is full of no-nonsense information. If you are interested in outdoor pursuits this is a book that should definitely be read, or for any other reason this book contains information that could save your life. SAS Survival, 26 Jan 2008
For the price this book is well worth the money. It is a reliable guide to survival in the great out doors. The ammount of knowledge I have accumalated from this small book is amazing. The author, John Wiseman of the SAS greats is enough to make you want to buy it. Survive- anywhere., 18 Jan 2008
No need for a long review here. This book was written by a professional soldier who was in the SAS, or the Special Air Service. For those not in the know, that's an elite unit of the British Army trained to carry out operations in ALL parts of the world. Eventually, the author became a survival instructor to the SAS, so you can be sure that this guy knows his stuff.
The book covers all you'd ever want to know about the essentials of surviving in climates such as: the polar region, mountains, seashores, islands, tropical regions, or even at sea. Here's few of the many topics the book covers:
-food, what you can and can't eat
-animal tracking with numerous pics
-color pics of edible plants
-pictures of traps and how to trap things
-how to handle animals you've killed for food
-how to make a camp and various shelters
-knot tying pics
-first aid
-color pics of medicinal plants
-picures of dangerous/poisonous critters
-things to have in a survival kit
A very handy resource for anybody who enjoys outdoor/wilderness activities, it's just a darn good thing to have around in case of emergencies- or even just to look at the pictures! Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff if you have a shoulder problem that is interfering with your outdoor activities.
its that good, 25 Dec 2007
yes folks i bought one of these and i was impressed so much so i bought another one to stay in my webbing, it is a must have!!!!!!! WOW!, 08 Aug 2007
This book is a must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It covers every thing you could know about Survival it's great.
Inside you find These Topics Essentials, Climate And Terrain, Food, Camp Craft, Reading The Signs, On The Move, Survival at sea, Rescue, Health, and Disaster Strategies!
It's a survival Bible!
BUY IT NOW, Because I give A 100% chance of Surviving if you have this book with you, I mean it even has Morse Code!
This book is years of Expert Knowledge In one and it will never Bore you there's some thing new and exciting on every new page.
Buy it! When you read it you will want to try the Practice Right away!
Have fun Brilliant writing - subtle and effective, 18 Sep 2008
Maybe Robert Macfarlane and Jay Griffiths should be forced to read this book, because without a single overdressed metaphor, without a single unnecessary word of any kind, it tells a series of subtle, clear and profoundly moving stories. It's a delight to meet Spike, and Chicken, and the other birds who soar and wing through the pages, the rhythmical, shapely pages. Envy! I wish I'd written this. Observation wonderful. Interesting that birds are so despised. I read this because having kept chickens I've also come to know and feed jackdaws and rooks, and all three kinds of bird are so bright and so interesting that I simply can't see why we once despised them. I shall read the sequel, if any. SUPERB, BRILLIANT, FUNNY, 26 Aug 2008
This book should be read by everyone and anyone who has ever had a pet. It's funny stories and anecdotes about the author's life with birds are charming and moving. I couldn't put it down. Funny, informative, a must buy!!!, 21 Aug 2008
The main theme of Corvus is the story of a baby rook owned by the autor but it also concerns broader subjects such as natural history and wild birds.
The parts about Woolfsons pet birds are a funny and touching potrait of a family and their pets, a little remeniscent of "my family and other animals".
The parts about natural history are more serious and require concentration but well worth it particularly the parts discussing birds relationship to dinosaurs.
I really loved this and hope that Esther Woolfson writes more of the same. The Passionate Angler, 27 Sep 2008
Maurice Wiggin's book, The Passionate Angler inspired the world-class BBC series, A Passion for Angling, in which Chris Yates starred. The success of this film catapulted this quiet, modest man into the limelight, and into the homes of anglers and non-anglers alike. It opened up a whole new world of exploration for him, and when Penguin/Hamish Hamilton published 'How to Fish' in 2006, it became an overnight success.
'Out of the Blue' published by Hamish Hamilton on the 4th September, 2008, looks set to outstrip 'How to Fish' in terms of sales. The book is already on its 2nd print run, which might come as a surprise to people who previously saw Chris as a coarse fisherman, because this wonderful new book is about sea fishing; bass in particular.
It's not an instructional book; it's a journey through the hot summers of school holidays spent rock-pooling with his brother; of becoming stranded on rocks and almost being washed out to sea; of his return and rediscovery of childhood haunts, and the thrill of catching, then releasing his beautiful bass to the mysterious depths of the ocean.
Chris's mastery of prose is unrivalled in the world of angling, and those who have previously read his books will not be disappointed by this latest gem. When asked recently which was his favourite book, he replied, 'this one.' It is certainly his latest passion but it goes beyond that, because in an interview with Charlotte Cross of Lantern Radio, North Devon, he expressed concern over the commercial fishing of bass, and warned of its potential demise.
Out of the Blue is an evocatively written book - read it and you'll smell the sea, feel the warm sun on your back and hear the waves crashing against the rocks. Your eyes will search an imaginary horizon for a glimpse of the magnificent bass, and who knows, it may stir readers enough to take a closer look at what is happening to the fish stocks in our coastal waters.
Above all, read and enjoy Chris's latest mastercast; I did, and if for some reason you can't go down to the sea right now, read 'Out of the Blue,' for it will surely take you there. Birds - lots of feathers, 13 Apr 2008
I bought this book to identify the little blighters who hop and fly merrily around my garden. It's a great book with good images and text. The only bird book you'll ever need. BRILLIANT BOOK!, 25 Mar 2008
I cannot recommend this book khighly enough. I have being birding for 25 years and have amassed a collection of c60 bird books on European birds. This is equal to 50 of them TOGETHER! The illustrations and descriptions are excellent. Many books carry detailed descriptions and photographs on birds in winter plumage and then state that they are summer visitors (or vice versa)! This book is invaluable and ever birder should have at least one copy First class field guide, 23 Jan 2008
An excellent field guide with brilliant drawings of all the birds in their different plumages. Really does help when identifying rare birds or ones which you are unsure of. Best bird guide ever!!!!, 29 Oct 2007
The best field guide I have ever owned. Beautiful illustrations and ideal text (plus illustrations and text on opposite pages!!!). It is also comprehensive and features many 'common' vagrants too. If you are a serious European based birder or wildlife enthusiast then quite simply you need this book.
Its scope and detail may prove off-putting to beginners but trust me its worth every penny! The best field guide currently available for the birds of Europe., 31 Aug 2007
In short - if you want an identification guide to European birds this is easily the best available to date.
On the cover it says 'The most complete field guide to the birds of Britain and Europe' and (at least at the present time) this is certainly true. The book is a little large to fit in most pockets - but all birdwatchers should be encouraged to carry a field notebook anyway (leave this book in the car, or at home or your hotel!) - if you do want to carry a guide with you it will fit in some large coat pockets, or easily into a backpack.
The illustrations, which are on the page facing the text and maps for each species, are excellent and show the birds in a variety of different positions (often including in flight), and illustrate all of the different plumages that are likely to be encountered. Important features are highlighted on the ilustrations by means of text captions and pointers.
The text is concise and contains all the most important information on identification and size, including verbal descriptions of songs and calls (often calls confirm an otherwise uncertain bird identification). Anyone who is not used to bird guides, and the birds themselves, will probably find that the phonetics mean very little - however if you have already heard the species being described they form an accurate reminder.
Anyone who uses a PDA may wish to consider the e-guide version, which has all the ilustrations and information from the book + recordings of the birds songs and calls - personally I find a book and CD (or MP3 files) easier!!
Ray Mears - My idol!, 16 Jan 2007
This book was a very enjoyable read. For those interested in the wilderness or hands-on outdoor pastimes, it keeps you flicking forward to see what other goodies it contains for you to get stuck into, or even fantasise about. It contains many interesting activities on how to survive in or simply enjoy the wilderness, suitable even for a first-timer. It breaks tasks down into easy to follow step by step instructions, along with the more detailed paragraphs along side.
There are well-drawn black and white illistrations, which for the most part are more than adequate to help you understand. It is, however, hard to get to grips with some of the plants, and to remember their uses due to the lack of colour. They all seem to merge into one multi-use supernatural plant, and you cant remember which plant is used for what. This isn't too much of a problem, as it isn't a heavy book and can easily fit in your backpack, available for quick referance.
It lists many common British plants and what they can be used for. These include roasting dandelion roots for a makeshift coffee to what mushroom makes a good plaster.
For the average city-person, there are still many interesting endevours within this book that can be practiced while on a strole through the woods.
It is mainly writen on how to make use of your suroundings and become more self-reliant. If you are a camper, I thoroughly recommend this book to enrich your interest/knowledge of the local countryside. You can also use this book to experiment traditional methods, without having to camp. There are such activities as:
Pottering, cooking, fishing, weaving, navigation, woodworking, cordage-making and tonnes more
Very informative and well writen.
*Writen by my son* Good introduction to outdoor survival, 19 Jan 2005
I liked the way the book was organised, into seasons highlighting the essentials e.g. fire, shelter etc. The writing style is clear and easy to read, demonstrating Ray's obvious knowledge and love of nature. As mentioned elsewhere, the illustrations are fairly basic, but I think sufficient to get the practical concepts across. Blatantly promotes his own Woodlore equipment & bushcraft/survival courses! Overall I would recommend the book as an introduction to outdoor survival.
Another great book by Ray, 03 Feb 2004
Having read most of the survival books on the market ranging from Lofty Wiseman's to Tom Brown I can say that this is very informative. It is although, after reading it aimed, more for the person who is interested in Bush craft and the primitive skills for more prolonged survival situations than those wanting skills for a short term survival situation with the possibilty of a quick rescue. If you are interested in merely learning survival techniques for short term survival situations then you are probably better looking at Lofty's SAS Survival handbook. However, if you are looking at learning/becoming more in-tune with nature then this is certainly a book to read. The break down into different months of what resources are available I found very useful and the sections on wildlife observation and tracking were also useful. Although not an exhaustive manuel on survival techniques it is certainly a book to set you on the path to be coming a good bushman.
Essential Outdoor Companion., 27 Sep 2002
Revealing an absolute wealth of knowledge and experience Ray Mears provides clear step-by-step instructions in how to master an abundance of survival methods which can be approached by novices and pros alike. Ray Mears shows how to construct shelters from the elements suitable for virtually any time of the year and a variety of locations and environments. He approaches how to light a good fire in all types of weathers with the materials readily available in the wild, how to track & identify animals and other essential everyday skills needed to survive in the great outdoors. Ray also shows how to orienteer and map-read, and the correct way to use a compass. He also demonstrates how to make a variety of tools and equipment from naturally available materials eg., ropes, pots etc.. This is an essential volume for anyone interested in the outdoor life, not just for survival purposes. A basic knowledge would do none of us any harm and this book meets this need and those who require much more. An excellent purchase.
Ray Mears Outdoor Survival Handbook, 24 Aug 2002
I read this book and thought it was excelent. I study bushcraft and find the book extremely useful. It explains all of the basic skills and some more advanced techniques. It gives step by step instrutions which are very easy to follow accumpanied by good drawings.
The book is dividided into 4 sections corrosponding to each season of the year.
It is different to his other book Bushcraft as it explains in detail all the skills mentioned. Bushcraft is a much better book for someone who is wanting to know if they like outdoor survival or not. The outdoor survival handbook is more for someone who is actually learning the skills rather than just reading about them.
The only bad part about this book is that some of the drawings are a bit unclear and actual photographs would have been a lot better. Overall this is a briliant book. Better for the someone learning outdoor survival. Bushcraft would be a much better choice for someone who is interested in outdoor survival or someone who is learning it.
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Customer Reviews
Survival is for the fittest, or those who read this book. , 05 Apr 2008
This little book could save your life, seriously. Though it is obviously aimed towards people with a predilection towards outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain climbing, sailing (etc) it does also make a point of saying that you never know when this information may come in handy. Written by a former member of the SAS, who would be the ultimate authority in extreme survival, this book is full of practical information on how to survive anywhere in the world. It details information like how to find a source of water, or create one yourself, how to treat injuries, how to make a shelter, ways to stave off dehydration, what plant forms are edible. It is a very long list because the book is full of no-nonsense information. If you are interested in outdoor pursuits this is a book that should definitely be read, or for any other reason this book contains information that could save your life. SAS Survival, 26 Jan 2008
For the price this book is well worth the money. It is a reliable guide to survival in the great out doors. The ammount of knowledge I have accumalated from this small book is amazing. The author, John Wiseman of the SAS greats is enough to make you want to buy it. Survive- anywhere., 18 Jan 2008
No need for a long review here. This book was written by a professional soldier who was in the SAS, or the Special Air Service. For those not in the know, that's an elite unit of the British Army trained to carry out operations in ALL parts of the world. Eventually, the author became a survival instructor to the SAS, so you can be sure that this guy knows his stuff.
The book covers all you'd ever want to know about the essentials of surviving in climates such as: the polar region, mountains, seashores, islands, tropical regions, or even at sea. Here's few of the many topics the book covers:
-food, what you can and can't eat
-animal tracking with numerous pics
-color pics of edible plants
-pictures of traps and how to trap things
-how to handle animals you've killed for food
-how to make a camp and various shelters
-knot tying pics
-first aid
-color pics of medicinal plants
-picures of dangerous/poisonous critters
-things to have in a survival kit
A very handy resource for anybody who enjoys outdoor/wilderness activities, it's just a darn good thing to have around in case of emergencies- or even just to look at the pictures! Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff if you have a shoulder problem that is interfering with your outdoor activities.
its that good, 25 Dec 2007
yes folks i bought one of these and i was impressed so much so i bought another one to stay in my webbing, it is a must have!!!!!!! WOW!, 08 Aug 2007
This book is a must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It covers every thing you could know about Survival it's great.
Inside you find These Topics Essentials, Climate And Terrain, Food, Camp Craft, Reading The Signs, On The Move, Survival at sea, Rescue, Health, and Disaster Strategies!
It's a survival Bible!
BUY IT NOW, Because I give A 100% chance of Surviving if you have this book with you, I mean it even has Morse Code!
This book is years of Expert Knowledge In one and it will never Bore you there's some thing new and exciting on every new page.
Buy it! When you read it you will want to try the Practice Right away!
Have fun Brilliant writing - subtle and effective, 18 Sep 2008
Maybe Robert Macfarlane and Jay Griffiths should be forced to read this book, because without a single overdressed metaphor, without a single unnecessary word of any kind, it tells a series of subtle, clear and profoundly moving stories. It's a delight to meet Spike, and Chicken, and the other birds who soar and wing through the pages, the rhythmical, shapely pages. Envy! I wish I'd written this. Observation wonderful. Interesting that birds are so despised. I read this because having kept chickens I've also come to know and feed jackdaws and rooks, and all three kinds of bird are so bright and so interesting that I simply can't see why we once despised them. I shall read the sequel, if any. SUPERB, BRILLIANT, FUNNY, 26 Aug 2008
This book should be read by everyone and anyone who has ever had a pet. It's funny stories and anecdotes about the author's life with birds are charming and moving. I couldn't put it down. Funny, informative, a must buy!!!, 21 Aug 2008
The main theme of Corvus is the story of a baby rook owned by the autor but it also concerns broader subjects such as natural history and wild birds.
The parts about Woolfsons pet birds are a funny and touching potrait of a family and their pets, a little remeniscent of "my family and other animals".
The parts about natural history are more serious and require concentration but well worth it particularly the parts discussing birds relationship to dinosaurs.
I really loved this and hope that Esther Woolfson writes more of the same. The Passionate Angler, 27 Sep 2008
Maurice Wiggin's book, The Passionate Angler inspired the world-class BBC series, A Passion for Angling, in which Chris Yates starred. The success of this film catapulted this quiet, modest man into the limelight, and into the homes of anglers and non-anglers alike. It opened up a whole new world of exploration for him, and when Penguin/Hamish Hamilton published 'How to Fish' in 2006, it became an overnight success.
'Out of the Blue' published by Hamish Hamilton on the 4th September, 2008, looks set to outstrip 'How to Fish' in terms of sales. The book is already on its 2nd print run, which might come as a surprise to people who previously saw Chris as a coarse fisherman, because this wonderful new book is about sea fishing; bass in particular.
It's not an instructional book; it's a journey through the hot summers of school holidays spent rock-pooling with his brother; of becoming stranded on rocks and almost being washed out to sea; of his return and rediscovery of childhood haunts, and the thrill of catching, then releasing his beautiful bass to the mysterious depths of the ocean.
Chris's mastery of prose is unrivalled in the world of angling, and those who have previously read his books will not be disappointed by this latest gem. When asked recently which was his favourite book, he replied, 'this one.' It is certainly his latest passion but it goes beyond that, because in an interview with Charlotte Cross of Lantern Radio, North Devon, he expressed concern over the commercial fishing of bass, and warned of its potential demise.
Out of the Blue is an evocatively written book - read it and you'll smell the sea, feel the warm sun on your back and hear the waves crashing against the rocks. Your eyes will search an imaginary horizon for a glimpse of the magnificent bass, and who knows, it may stir readers enough to take a closer look at what is happening to the fish stocks in our coastal waters.
Above all, read and enjoy Chris's latest mastercast; I did, and if for some reason you can't go down to the sea right now, read 'Out of the Blue,' for it will surely take you there. Birds - lots of feathers, 13 Apr 2008
I bought this book to identify the little blighters who hop and fly merrily around my garden. It's a great book with good images and text. The only bird book you'll ever need. BRILLIANT BOOK!, 25 Mar 2008
I cannot recommend this book khighly enough. I have being birding for 25 years and have amassed a collection of c60 bird books on European birds. This is equal to 50 of them TOGETHER! The illustrations and descriptions are excellent. Many books carry detailed descriptions and photographs on birds in winter plumage and then state that they are summer visitors (or vice versa)! This book is invaluable and ever birder should have at least one copy First class field guide, 23 Jan 2008
An excellent field guide with brilliant drawings of all the birds in their different plumages. Really does help when identifying rare birds or ones which you are unsure of. Best bird guide ever!!!!, 29 Oct 2007
The best field guide I have ever owned. Beautiful illustrations and ideal text (plus illustrations and text on opposite pages!!!). It is also comprehensive and features many 'common' vagrants too. If you are a serious European based birder or wildlife enthusiast then quite simply you need this book.
Its scope and detail may prove off-putting to beginners but trust me its worth every penny! The best field guide currently available for the birds of Europe., 31 Aug 2007
In short - if you want an identification guide to European birds this is easily the best available to date.
On the cover it says 'The most complete field guide to the birds of Britain and Europe' and (at least at the present time) this is certainly true. The book is a little large to fit in most pockets - but all birdwatchers should be encouraged to carry a field notebook anyway (leave this book in the car, or at home or your hotel!) - if you do want to carry a guide with you it will fit in some large coat pockets, or easily into a backpack.
The illustrations, which are on the page facing the text and maps for each species, are excellent and show the birds in a variety of different positions (often including in flight), and illustrate all of the different plumages that are likely to be encountered. Important features are highlighted on the ilustrations by means of text captions and pointers.
The text is concise and contains all the most important information on identification and size, including verbal descriptions of songs and calls (often calls confirm an otherwise uncertain bird identification). Anyone who is not used to bird guides, and the birds themselves, will probably find that the phonetics mean very little - however if you have already heard the species being described they form an accurate reminder.
Anyone who uses a PDA may wish to consider the e-guide version, which has all the ilustrations and information from the book + recordings of the birds songs and calls - personally I find a book and CD (or MP3 files) easier!!
Ray Mears - My idol!, 16 Jan 2007
This book was a very enjoyable read. For those interested in the wilderness or hands-on outdoor pastimes, it keeps you flicking forward to see what other goodies it contains for you to get stuck into, or even fantasise about. It contains many interesting activities on how to survive in or simply enjoy the wilderness, suitable even for a first-timer. It breaks tasks down into easy to follow step by step instructions, along with the more detailed paragraphs along side.
There are well-drawn black and white illistrations, which for the most part are more than adequate to help you understand. It is, however, hard to get to grips with some of the plants, and to remember their uses due to the lack of colour. They all seem to merge into one multi-use supernatural plant, and you cant remember which plant is used for what. This isn't too much of a problem, as it isn't a heavy book and can easily fit in your backpack, available for quick referance.
It lists many common British plants and what they can be used for. These include roasting dandelion roots for a makeshift coffee to what mushroom makes a good plaster.
For the average city-person, there are still many interesting endevours within this book that can be practiced while on a strole through the woods.
It is mainly writen on how to make use of your suroundings and become more self-reliant. If you are a camper, I thoroughly recommend this book to enrich your interest/knowledge of the local countryside. You can also use this book to experiment traditional methods, without having to camp. There are such activities as:
Pottering, cooking, fishing, weaving, navigation, woodworking, cordage-making and tonnes more
Very informative and well writen.
*Writen by my son* Good introduction to outdoor survival, 19 Jan 2005
I liked the way the book was organised, into seasons highlighting the essentials e.g. fire, shelter etc. The writing style is clear and easy to read, demonstrating Ray's obvious knowledge and love of nature. As mentioned elsewhere, the illustrations are fairly basic, but I think sufficient to get the practical concepts across. Blatantly promotes his own Woodlore equipment & bushcraft/survival courses! Overall I would recommend the book as an introduction to outdoor survival.
Another great book by Ray, 03 Feb 2004
Having read most of the survival books on the market ranging from Lofty Wiseman's to Tom Brown I can say that this is very informative. It is although, after reading it aimed, more for the person who is interested in Bush craft and the primitive skills for more prolonged survival situations than those wanting skills for a short term survival situation with the possibilty of a quick rescue. If you are interested in merely learning survival techniques for short term survival situations then you are probably better looking at Lofty's SAS Survival handbook. However, if you are looking at learning/becoming more in-tune with nature then this is certainly a book to read. The break down into different months of what resources are available I found very useful and the sections on wildlife observation and tracking were also useful. Although not an exhaustive manuel on survival techniques it is certainly a book to set you on the path to be coming a good bushman.
Essential Outdoor Companion., 27 Sep 2002
Revealing an absolute wealth of knowledge and experience Ray Mears provides clear step-by-step instructions in how to master an abundance of survival methods which can be approached by novices and pros alike. Ray Mears shows how to construct shelters from the elements suitable for virtually any time of the year and a variety of locations and environments. He approaches how to light a good fire in all types of weathers with the materials readily available in the wild, how to track & identify animals and other essential everyday skills needed to survive in the great outdoors. Ray also shows how to orienteer and map-read, and the correct way to use a compass. He also demonstrates how to make a variety of tools and equipment from naturally available materials eg., ropes, pots etc.. This is an essential volume for anyone interested in the outdoor life, not just for survival purposes. A basic knowledge would do none of us any harm and this book meets this need and those who require much more. An excellent purchase.
Ray Mears Outdoor Survival Handbook, 24 Aug 2002
I read this book and thought it was excelent. I study bushcraft and find the book extremely useful. It explains all of the basic skills and some more advanced techniques. It gives step by step instrutions which are very easy to follow accumpanied by good drawings.
The book is dividided into 4 sections corrosponding to each season of the year.
It is different to his other book Bushcraft as it explains in detail all the skills mentioned. Bushcraft is a much better book for someone who is wanting to know if they like outdoor survival or not. The outdoor survival handbook is more for someone who is actually learning the skills rather than just reading about them.
The only bad part about this book is that some of the drawings are a bit unclear and actual photographs would have been a lot better. Overall this is a briliant book. Better for the someone learning outdoor survival. Bushcraft would be a much better choice for someone who is interested in outdoor survival or someone who is learning it.
but John Wilson is a bit annoying, 24 Apr 2008
Get past Wilson's gurning, mugging puss and you have an excellent reference book. This book will teach you everything you need to know about rigs, hooks and knots. It is clearly set out with good clear photographs and instructions so it is useful for beginners and intermediates alike.
Read this book on the train and practice at home during February & March when the shore fishing in this country is shocking. Just knowing two or three of the knots and rigs in this book will improve your fishing no end. Good knots do not break. You'll keep more fish and have more confidence in your casting.
The second section of the book concerns bait. What to look for and how to hook and present it. Again a couple of tips learned and practiced will enhance your fishing no end. You will learn what to look for in the tackle shop (and on the beach) so you won't look like a novice when you open up your worms in the tackle shop and say "that's great" as the tackle dealer hands you four day old lug that are about to blow.
A quality book from a quality publication house. Look out for more Anger's Mail titles. Please note that I have found some of the fish specific titles a bit dated but there are, none the less, full of great advise.
The Sea Angler's Step by Step Guid to Bait and Rigs, 07 Jan 2008
Iv only been into sea fishing for about 6 months. Almost everything suggested in this book has been printed in monthly sea fishing magazines.
This is a useful book to keep and will tell you how to make rigs and present bait.
eliminate the confusion!, 23 Mar 2004
If you are new to sea fishing then this book will help you through the minefield of technical names and jargon. It will show you how to make simple and effective rigs which do catch fish, believe me i am a serious match fisherman! it then explains the various types of sea baits and their usages how to hook worms etc.....bait presentation is just as important as the rig you are using. This book certainly helped me no end when i started back beach fishing 4 years ago, it will give you the confidence to go into your tackle shop and not look like a complete novice, and also save you money in the long run.
The Sea Angler's Step-by-step Guide to Bait and Rigs, 16 Mar 2004
I have only had this book for a few days and only being a beginner to the world of Sea Angling i have found it very useful. It has show me things that you would never know unless you belong to a club, instead of bying rigs it shows you how to build your own therefore saving money. it also shows how to keep your bait fresh and re-usable for your next fishing trip, that also saves money. All in all a very cheap but valuble book for the beginner to Sea Angling.
Essential purchase, 07 Dec 2003
Have you bought loads of sea angling books in the hope that at least one will contain some simple pictures and explanations of bait preparation and presentation rather than just showing you a picture of a ready baited rig? Not found one yet? Then this book is for you. Excellent purchase.
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Customer Reviews
Survival is for the fittest, or those who read this book. , 05 Apr 2008
This little book could save your life, seriously. Though it is obviously aimed towards people with a predilection towards outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain climbing, sailing (etc) it does also make a point of saying that you never know when this information may come in handy. Written by a former member of the SAS, who would be the ultimate authority in extreme survival, this book is full of practical information on how to survive anywhere in the world. It details information like how to find a source of water, or create one yourself, how to treat injuries, how to make a shelter, ways to stave off dehydration, what plant forms are edible. It is a very long list because the book is full of no-nonsense information. If you are interested in outdoor pursuits this is a book that should definitely be read, or for any other reason this book contains information that could save your life. SAS Survival, 26 Jan 2008
For the price this book is well worth the money. It is a reliable guide to survival in the great out doors. The ammount of knowledge I have accumalated from this small book is amazing. The author, John Wiseman of the SAS greats is enough to make you want to buy it. Survive- anywhere., 18 Jan 2008
No need for a long review here. This book was written by a professional soldier who was in the SAS, or the Special Air Service. For those not in the know, that's an elite unit of the British Army trained to carry out operations in ALL parts of the world. Eventually, the author became a survival instructor to the SAS, so you can be sure that this guy knows his stuff.
The book covers all you'd ever want to know about the essentials of surviving in climates such as: the polar region, mountains, seashores, islands, tropical regions, or even at sea. Here's few of the many topics the book covers:
-food, what you can and can't eat
-animal tracking with numerous pics
-color pics of edible plants
-pictures of traps and how to trap things
-how to handle animals you've killed for food
-how to make a camp and various shelters
-knot tying pics
-first aid
-color pics of medicinal plants
-picures of dangerous/poisonous critters
-things to have in a survival kit
A very handy resource for anybody who enjoys outdoor/wilderness activities, it's just a darn good thing to have around in case of emergencies- or even just to look at the pictures! Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff if you have a shoulder problem that is interfering with your outdoor activities.
its that good, 25 Dec 2007
yes folks i bought one of these and i was impressed so much so i bought another one to stay in my webbing, it is a must have!!!!!!! WOW!, 08 Aug 2007
This book is a must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It covers every thing you could know about Survival it's great.
Inside you find These Topics Essentials, Climate And Terrain, Food, Camp Craft, Reading The Signs, On The Move, Survival at sea, Rescue, Health, and Disaster Strategies!
It's a survival Bible!
BUY IT NOW, Because I give A 100% chance of Surviving if you have this book with you, I mean it even has Morse Code!
This book is years of Expert Knowledge In one and it will never Bore you there's some thing new and exciting on every new page.
Buy it! When you read it you will want to try the Practice Right away!
Have fun Brilliant writing - subtle and effective, 18 Sep 2008
Maybe Robert Macfarlane and Jay Griffiths should be forced to read this book, because without a single overdressed metaphor, without a single unnecessary word of any kind, it tells a series of subtle, clear and profoundly moving stories. It's a delight to meet Spike, and Chicken, and the other birds who soar and wing through the pages, the rhythmical, shapely pages. Envy! I wish I'd written this. Observation wonderful. Interesting that birds are so despised. I read this because having kept chickens I've also come to know and feed jackdaws and rooks, and all three kinds of bird are so bright and so interesting that I simply can't see why we once despised them. I shall read the sequel, if any. SUPERB, BRILLIANT, FUNNY, 26 Aug 2008
This book should be read by everyone and anyone who has ever had a pet. It's funny stories and anecdotes about the author's life with birds are charming and moving. I couldn't put it down. Funny, informative, a must buy!!!, 21 Aug 2008
The main theme of Corvus is the story of a baby rook owned by the autor but it also concerns broader subjects such as natural history and wild birds.
The parts about Woolfsons pet birds are a funny and touching potrait of a family and their pets, a little remeniscent of "my family and other animals".
The parts about natural history are more serious and require concentration but well worth it particularly the parts discussing birds relationship to dinosaurs.
I really loved this and hope that Esther Woolfson writes more of the same. The Passionate Angler, 27 Sep 2008
Maurice Wiggin's book, The Passionate Angler inspired the world-class BBC series, A Passion for Angling, in which Chris Yates starred. The success of this film catapulted this quiet, modest man into the limelight, and into the homes of anglers and non-anglers alike. It opened up a whole new world of exploration for him, and when Penguin/Hamish Hamilton published 'How to Fish' in 2006, it became an overnight success.
'Out of the Blue' published by Hamish Hamilton on the 4th September, 2008, looks set to outstrip 'How to Fish' in terms of sales. The book is already on its 2nd print run, which might come as a surprise to people who previously saw Chris as a coarse fisherman, because this wonderful new book is about sea fishing; bass in particular.
It's not an instructional book; it's a journey through the hot summers of school holidays spent rock-pooling with his brother; of becoming stranded on rocks and almost being washed out to sea; of his return and rediscovery of childhood haunts, and the thrill of catching, then releasing his beautiful bass to the mysterious depths of the ocean.
Chris's mastery of prose is unrivalled in the world of angling, and those who have previously read his books will not be disappointed by this latest gem. When asked recently which was his favourite book, he replied, 'this one.' It is certainly his latest passion but it goes beyond that, because in an interview with Charlotte Cross of Lantern Radio, North Devon, he expressed concern over the commercial fishing of bass, and warned of its potential demise.
Out of the Blue is an evocatively written book - read it and you'll smell the sea, feel the warm sun on your back and hear the waves crashing against the rocks. Your eyes will search an imaginary horizon for a glimpse of the magnificent bass, and who knows, it may stir readers enough to take a closer look at what is happening to the fish stocks in our coastal waters.
Above all, read and enjoy Chris's latest mastercast; I did, and if for some reason you can't go down to the sea right now, read 'Out of the Blue,' for it will surely take you there. Birds - lots of feathers, 13 Apr 2008
I bought this book to identify the little blighters who hop and fly merrily around my garden. It's a great book with good images and text. The only bird book you'll ever need. BRILLIANT BOOK!, 25 Mar 2008
I cannot recommend this book khighly enough. I have being birding for 25 years and have amassed a collection of c60 bird books on European birds. This is equal to 50 of them TOGETHER! The illustrations and descriptions are excellent. Many books carry detailed descriptions and photographs on birds in winter plumage and then state that they are summer visitors (or vice versa)! This book is invaluable and ever birder should have at least one copy First class field guide, 23 Jan 2008
An excellent field guide with brilliant drawings of all the birds in their different plumages. Really does help when identifying rare birds or ones which you are unsure of. Best bird guide ever!!!!, 29 Oct 2007
The best field guide I have ever owned. Beautiful illustrations and ideal text (plus illustrations and text on opposite pages!!!). It is also comprehensive and features many 'common' vagrants too. If you are a serious European based birder or wildlife enthusiast then quite simply you need this book.
Its scope and detail may prove off-putting to beginners but trust me its worth every penny! The best field guide currently available for the birds of Europe., 31 Aug 2007
In short - if you want an identification guide to European birds this is easily the best available to date.
On the cover it says 'The most complete field guide to the birds of Britain and Europe' and (at least at the present time) this is certainly true. The book is a little large to fit in most pockets - but all birdwatchers should be encouraged to carry a field notebook anyway (leave this book in the car, or at home or your hotel!) - if you do want to carry a guide with you it will fit in some large coat pockets, or easily into a backpack.
The illustrations, which are on the page facing the text and maps for each species, are excellent and show the birds in a variety of different positions (often including in flight), and illustrate all of the different plumages that are likely to be encountered. Important features are highlighted on the ilustrations by means of text captions and pointers.
The text is concise and contains all the most important information on identification and size, including verbal descriptions of songs and calls (often calls confirm an otherwise uncertain bird identification). Anyone who is not used to bird guides, and the birds themselves, will probably find that the phonetics mean very little - however if you have already heard the species being described they form an accurate reminder.
Anyone who uses a PDA may wish to consider the e-guide version, which has all the ilustrations and information from the book + recordings of the birds songs and calls - personally I find a book and CD (or MP3 files) easier!!
Ray Mears - My idol!, 16 Jan 2007
This book was a very enjoyable read. For those interested in the wilderness or hands-on outdoor pastimes, it keeps you flicking forward to see what other goodies it contains for you to get stuck into, or even fantasise about. It contains many interesting activities on how to survive in or simply enjoy the wilderness, suitable even for a first-timer. It breaks tasks down into easy to follow step by step instructions, along with the more detailed paragraphs along side.
There are well-drawn black and white illistrations, which for the most part are more than adequate to help you understand. It is, however, hard to get to grips with some of the plants, and to remember their uses due to the lack of colour. They all seem to merge into one multi-use supernatural plant, and you cant remember which plant is used for what. This isn't too much of a problem, as it isn't a heavy book and can easily fit in your backpack, available for quick referance.
It lists many common British plants and what they can be used for. These include roasting dandelion roots for a makeshift coffee to what mushroom makes a good plaster.
For the average city-person, there are still many interesting endevours within this book that can be practiced while on a strole through the woods.
It is mainly writen on how to make use of your suroundings and become more self-reliant. If you are a camper, I thoroughly recommend this book to enrich your interest/knowledge of the local countryside. You can also use this book to experiment traditional methods, without having to camp. There are such activities as:
Pottering, cooking, fishing, weaving, navigation, woodworking, cordage-making and tonnes more
Very informative and well writen.
*Writen by my son* Good introduction to outdoor survival, 19 Jan 2005
I liked the way the book was organised, into seasons highlighting the essentials e.g. fire, shelter etc. The writing style is clear and easy to read, demonstrating Ray's obvious knowledge and love of nature. As mentioned elsewhere, the illustrations are fairly basic, but I think sufficient to get the practical concepts across. Blatantly promotes his own Woodlore equipment & bushcraft/survival courses! Overall I would recommend the book as an introduction to outdoor survival.
Another great book by Ray, 03 Feb 2004
Having read most of the survival books on the market ranging from Lofty Wiseman's to Tom Brown I can say that this is very informative. It is although, after reading it aimed, more for the person who is interested in Bush craft and the primitive skills for more prolonged survival situations than those wanting skills for a short term survival situation with the possibilty of a quick rescue. If you are interested in merely learning survival techniques for short term survival situations then you are probably better looking at Lofty's SAS Survival handbook. However, if you are looking at learning/becoming more in-tune with nature then this is certainly a book to read. The break down into different months of what resources are available I found very useful and the sections on wildlife observation and tracking were also useful. Although not an exhaustive manuel on survival techniques it is certainly a book to set you on the path to be coming a good bushman.
Essential Outdoor Companion., 27 Sep 2002
Revealing an absolute wealth of knowledge and experience Ray Mears provides clear step-by-step instructions in how to master an abundance of survival methods which can be approached by novices and pros alike. Ray Mears shows how to construct shelters from the elements suitable for virtually any time of the year and a variety of locations and environments. He approaches how to light a good fire in all types of weathers with the materials readily available in the wild, how to track & identify animals and other essential everyday skills needed to survive in the great outdoors. Ray also shows how to orienteer and map-read, and the correct way to use a compass. He also demonstrates how to make a variety of tools and equipment from naturally available materials eg., ropes, pots etc.. This is an essential volume for anyone interested in the outdoor life, not just for survival purposes. A basic knowledge would do none of us any harm and this book meets this need and those who require much more. An excellent purchase.
Ray Mears Outdoor Survival Handbook, 24 Aug 2002
I read this book and thought it was excelent. I study bushcraft and find the book extremely useful. It explains all of the basic skills and some more advanced techniques. It gives step by step instrutions which are very easy to follow accumpanied by good drawings.
The book is dividided into 4 sections corrosponding to each season of the year.
It is different to his other book Bushcraft as it explains in detail all the skills mentioned. Bushcraft is a much better book for someone who is wanting to know if they like outdoor survival or not. The outdoor survival handbook is more for someone who is actually learning the skills rather than just reading about them.
The only bad part about this book is that some of the drawings are a bit unclear and actual photographs would have been a lot better. Overall this is a briliant book. Better for the someone learning outdoor survival. Bushcraft would be a much better choice for someone who is interested in outdoor survival or someone who is learning it.
but John Wilson is a bit annoying, 24 Apr 2008
Get past Wilson's gurning, mugging puss and you have an excellent reference book. This book will teach you everything you need to know about rigs, hooks and knots. It is clearly set out with good clear photographs and instructions so it is useful for beginners and intermediates alike.
Read this book on the train and practice at home during February & March when the shore fishing in this country is shocking. Just knowing two or three of the knots and rigs in this book will improve your fishing no end. Good knots do not break. You'll keep more fish and have more confidence in your casting.
The second section of the book concerns bait. What to look for and how to hook and present it. Again a couple of tips learned and practiced will enhance your fishing no end. You will learn what to look for in the tackle shop (and on the beach) so you won't look like a novice when you open up your worms in the tackle shop and say "that's great" as the tackle dealer hands you four day old lug that are about to blow.
A quality book from a quality publication house. Look out for more Anger's Mail titles. Please note that I have found some of the fish specific titles a bit dated but there are, none the less, full of great advise.
The Sea Angler's Step by Step Guid to Bait and Rigs, 07 Jan 2008
Iv only been into sea fishing for about 6 months. Almost everything suggested in this book has been printed in monthly sea fishing magazines.
This is a useful book to keep and will tell you how to make rigs and present bait.
eliminate the confusion!, 23 Mar 2004
If you are new to sea fishing then this book will help you through the minefield of technical names and jargon. It will show you how to make simple and effective rigs which do catch fish, believe me i am a serious match fisherman! it then explains the various types of sea baits and their usages how to hook worms etc.....bait presentation is just as important as the rig you are using. This book certainly helped me no end when i started back beach fishing 4 years ago, it will give you the confidence to go into your tackle shop and not look like a complete novice, and also save you money in the long run.
The Sea Angler's Step-by-step Guide to Bait and Rigs, 16 Mar 2004
I have only had this book for a few days and only being a beginner to the world of Sea Angling i have found it very useful. It has show me things that you would never know unless you belong to a club, instead of bying rigs it shows you how to build your own therefore saving money. it also shows how to keep your bait fresh and re-usable for your next fishing trip, that also saves money. All in all a very cheap but valuble book for the beginner to Sea Angling.
Essential purchase, 07 Dec 2003
Have you bought loads of sea angling books in the hope that at least one will contain some simple pictures and explanations of bait preparation and presentation rather than just showing you a picture of a ready baited rig? Not found one yet? Then this book is for you. Excellent purchase.
Beautiful, 06 Sep 2008
Christopher's latest is a beautiful book to paw over and dip in and out of. The pictures are evocative and inspiring, and the text just takes you there.
Great to keep in your car so that you always have something interesting to deviate off to when your on a journey. The format reminds me of a more lavish version of the old AA or RAC map/guide books that your Dad used to keep in the glove box and I loved to read as a boy.
Wild about the places, 12 Aug 2008
A culmination of many years of travelling the country, this is a fantastic collection of nooks, crannies and odd corners that have largely gone overlooked by the rest of us as we rush about our daily lives. A visit to any of these places would be time very well spent, but just curling up in a corner with it is a fine form of escape too if circumstances don't allow you to get away.
A perfect partner to 'Places to Hide' by Dixe Wills which similarly takes readers to the most unlikely of places and makes them laugh at the same time, which is quite a feat.
Anyway, I've no hesitation in awarding Somerville five stars for a great idea well executed.
How to take a walk on the wild side, 25 Jul 2008
As soon as I saw this book, I knew that it would appeal to me. At present there are a great number of similarly themed books, all encouraging the reader to relinquish their place from the sofa and instead to get out into the countryside and experience the places within the pages for themselves. BRITAIN AND IRELAND'S BEST WILD PLACES is perhaps one of the best ways of beginning to do exactly that.
The book is organised into regions, beginning with The West Country, moving upwards throughout Britain before fianlly moving across to Ireland.
Each wild place has details of mapping and travel instructions, plus other useful information. For example, in the Republic of Ireland Somerville details the Nephin Beg mountains. Stating that the walk is a long one - 23 miles - he advises that you should not consider doing the walk solo unless very well experienced. And of course, that you should have all of the proper equipment if you do go on it. At the beginning of each section there is also a lovely old style map of the area, illustrating at a glance where each place is located.
For me, the success and delight of this book is the lay-out. You could easily give it as a gift to someone. Many of the wild places have an accompanying colour picture to tempt you, showing just enough of their allure to wet your appetite. But it is also the way that Somerville writes about the places which captures your imagination. The entry for Woodchester Mansion, for example, brilliantly manages to create the sense of the gothic that Somerville describes. Likewise, his entry for the "Bronte moors" shows how such a desolate and wild place could help to mold the literary imaginations of three young women.
This book is an absolute delight. I am so glad I purchased it. Not only because I love walking and the countryside, but also because I love things which can play on my mind and maybe even ignite a creative flame within. This is a book I shall continually dip into whether at home or going away on holiday - as a way to find those unknown places, this is a must.
a great travelling companion, 20 Jul 2008
A lovely book - you feel compelled to read about places you have been to and driven to explore pastures new. A book to refer to on any trip to unfamiliar territory and a fabulous gift for anyone who likes to walk.
Best Wild Places- a splendid encyclopaedia of inspirational walks, 19 Jul 2008
This is a beautifully produced book which is not only clear and well- structured but informative and inspirational. You start by reading about places you have already visited and soon discover places you need to visit. The photography is real and the descriptions tempting. It is a perfect book to dip in and out of and suits experienced and novice walkers alike.
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Customer Reviews
Survival is for the fittest, or those who read this book. , 05 Apr 2008
This little book could save your life, seriously. Though it is obviously aimed towards people with a predilection towards outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountain climbing, sailing (etc) it does also make a point of saying that you never know when this information may come in handy. Written by a former member of the SAS, who would be the ultimate authority in extreme survival, this book is full of practical information on how to survive anywhere in the world. It details information like how to find a source of water, or create one yourself, how to treat injuries, how to make a shelter, ways to stave off dehydration, what plant forms are edible. It is a very long list because the book is full of no-nonsense information. If you are interested in outdoor pursuits this is a book that should definitely be read, or for any other reason this book contains information that could save your life.
SAS Survival, 26 Jan 2008
For the price this book is well worth the money. It is a reliable guide to survival in the great out doors. The ammount of knowledge I have accumalated from this small book is amazing. The author, John Wiseman of the SAS greats is enough to make you want to buy it.
Survive- anywhere., 18 Jan 2008
No need for a long review here. This book was written by a professional soldier who was in the SAS, or the Special Air Service. For those not in the know, that's an elite unit of the British Army trained to carry out operations in ALL parts of the world. Eventually, the author became a survival instructor to the SAS, so you can be sure that this guy knows his stuff.
The book covers all you'd ever want to know about the essentials of surviving in climates such as: the polar region, mountains, seashores, islands, tropical regions, or even at sea. Here's few of the many topics the book covers:
-food, what you can and can't eat
-animal tracking with numerous pics
-color pics of edible plants
-pictures of traps and how to trap things
-how to handle animals you've killed for food
-how to make a camp and various shelters
-knot tying pics
-first aid
-color pics of medicinal plants
-picures of dangerous/poisonous critters
-things to have in a survival kit
A very handy resource for anybody who enjoys outdoor/wilderness activities, it's just a darn good thing to have around in case of emergencies- or even just to look at the pictures! Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff if you have a shoulder problem that is interfering with your outdoor activities.
its that good, 25 Dec 2007
yes folks i bought one of these and i was impressed so much so i bought another one to stay in my webbing, it is a must have!!!!!!!
WOW!, 08 Aug 2007
This book is a must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It covers every thing you could know about Survival it's great.
Inside you find These Topics Essentials, Climate And Terrain, Food, Camp Craft, Reading The Signs, On The Move, Survival at sea, Rescue, Health, and Disaster Strategies!
It's a survival Bible!
BUY IT NOW, Because I give A 100% chance of Surviving if you have this book with you, I mean it even has Morse Code!
This book is years of Expert Knowledge In one and it will never Bore you there's some thing new and exciting on every new page.
Buy it! When you read it you will want to try the Practice Right away!
Have fun
Brilliant writing - subtle and effective, 18 Sep 2008
Maybe Robert Macfarlane and Jay Griffiths should be forced to read this book, because without a single overdressed metaphor, without a single unnecessary word of any kind, it tells a series of subtle, clear and profoundly moving stories. It's a delight to meet Spike, and Chicken, and the other birds who soar and wing through the pages, the rhythmical, shapely pages. Envy! I wish I'd written this. Observation wonderful. Interesting that birds are so despised. I read this because having kept chickens I've also come to know and feed jackdaws and rooks, and all three kinds of bird are so bright and so interesting that I simply can't see why we once despised them. I shall read the sequel, if any.
SUPERB, BRILLIANT, FUNNY, 26 Aug 2008
This book should be read by everyone and anyone who has ever had a pet. It's funny stories and anecdotes about the author's life with birds are charming and moving. I couldn't put it down.
Funny, informative, a must buy!!!, 21 Aug 2008
The main theme of Corvus is the story of a baby rook owned by the autor but it also concerns broader subjects such as natural history and wild birds.
The parts about Woolfsons pet birds are a funny and touching potrait of a family and their pets, a little remeniscent of "my family and other animals".
The parts about natural history are more serious and require concentration but well worth it particularly the parts discussing birds relationship to dinosaurs.
I really loved this and hope that Esther Woolfson writes more of the same.
The Passionate Angler, 27 Sep 2008
Maurice Wiggin's book, The Passionate Angler inspired the world-class BBC series, A Passion for Angling, in which Chris Yates starred. The success of this film catapulted thi | | |