The Friends of Charles Darwin

Short but enjoyable book, based on a series of radio programmes.

This is a very short book. You can certainly read it in a single sitting. It is based on a series of 15-minute radio programmes in which Mabey explored how our various senses help us to understand and appreciate nature. He also compares and contrasts our artistic/romantic use of these senses with the scientific—coming down squarely in favour of both.

I would read Richard Mabey's shopping lists, were he to publish them. He's one of my favourite writers. I must admit that I was disappointed with the brevity of this book, but Mabey's writing is as observant and enjoyable as ever, so I have no hesitation in recommending it.

• Buy from Amazon.co.uk (hardback)
• Buy from Amazon.com (hardback)

Please note: Any referral payments received for linking to other websites will be sent to my favourite charity, The HMS Beagle Project.