Overview

This is a book about a river; its wildlife, history and folklore, and the remarkable people who have lived in the communities that have grown up on its banks. The river is the Warwickshire Avon, known as Shakespeare's Avon, that runs 88 miles from its source in Naseby to Tewkesbury where it joins the Severn. The river flows like an artery through the heart of England, and in days gone by its waters have often run red with blood as vicious battles for the crown have played out on its banks, key moments in British history often dramatised by the Bard of Stratford. The author follows a waymarked path along the Avon valley - The Shakespeare Avon Way - describing a short section each month, with the landscape and nature changing with the months. Along the way there are ruined abbeys, castles, medieval bridges, nature reserves, fossil remains and a host of human stories from the towns and villages that have flourished at ancient crossing points. The writer sets himself an ambitious target for the number of different birds he can identify during the year, and reflects on the various threats to our natural environment, not least the growing impacts of climate change. The physical and mental benefits of walking in a natural setting, particularly by a river, are now well established, and were particularly valuable during the worst period of the pandemic. Research shows that a walk in the countryside cheers you up; this book will certainly cheer the reader as it takes you on a delightful English journey, with keen observation, a wealth of information, and a host of fascinating stories.

Full Product Details

9781803813615

Table of Contents

Reviews

Full of fascinating stories and descriptions of the wildlife to be found along the river that runs like an artery through the heart of England - David Kelham, High Sheriff of Warwickshire. It's like taking a walk with a knowledgeable friend. The narrative weaves its way with the river, revealing insights into history, landscape and nature. And the illustrations are lovely - Penny Dale, Author and Illustrator. A beautiful book about English nature and history, written in a witty and accessible style - Nic Hallam, British Birds.

Author Information

"Rick Thompson is a former journalist and broadcaster and a lifelong birdwatcher. He worked for BBC News for 27 years, first as a reporter, presenter and producer in Birmingham, then as a senior editor with BBC TV News and the World Service. He returned to the Midlands as the BBC's Head of News, Current Affairs and Local Programmes. Later his consultancy, 'T-Media', organised dozens of training workshops and development projects for public service broadcasters in the former Communist countries of Europe. For four years Rick was a member of the Governing Council of the RSPB. He is regularly asked to moderate European conferences on the environment, biodiversity, renewable energy and climate change. He says, ""I believe that exposure to nature is incredibly important for people's physical and mental well-being, and getting to know more about the natural world is fascinating. Equally, understanding the history embedded in the landscape that surrounds you is illuminating."""

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available