One Midsummer's Day: Swifts and the Story of Life on Earth

Mark Cocker's book "One Midsummer's Day" is a captivating exploration of swifts, revealing the profound interconnections of the biosphere and celebrating the unity of all life on Earth. It is a jewel of a book, praised by Caroline Lucas MP and considered one of our greatest living naturalists by the Spectator.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2023
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

The bestselling author of "Crow Country" and writer of the "Guardian's" Country Diary, Caroline Lucas MP, has written a captivating book titled "One Midsummer's Day." In this remarkable work, Lucas takes readers on a journey through a single day spent in the company of swifts, revealing the extraordinary life of these remarkable birds.

Swifts are among the most extraordinary of all birds. Their migrations span continents, and their twelve-week stopover in European rooftops during the summer is the epitome of summer. While they may nest in our homes, much about their lives remains hidden from our sight. Swifts are shrouded in mystery, captivating the hearts of those who seek to understand them.

Mark Cocker, a passionate naturalist, sets out on a mission to capture the essence of swifts. Over the course of one day in midsummer, he dedicates himself to his beloved black birds as they soar overhead. However, this book is about so much more than just swifts. It is a profound exploration of the interconnectedness of all life on Earth.

Through his meticulous research and observations, Cocker demonstrates that life is a singular and glorious continuum, stretching from the deep-sea thermal vents where life first emerged to the scorching 15 million degrees at the core of our Sun. He shows that life is interconnected in ways that are both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Swifts, with their ability to fly without borders, serve as a perfect symbol of the unity of the living planet. They remind us that we are all interconnected, regardless of our differences. But, as Cocker points out, even the most isolated creatures, such as ourselves, cannot be considered truly alive in isolation. We are all inextricably connected to one another.

"One Midsummer's Day" draws on a wealth of knowledge and expertise, spanning science, history, literature, and a lifetime of close observation. Lucas weaves these diverse elements together in a dazzling and wide-ranging celebration of all life on Earth. The book is filled with stunning imagery, captivating anecdotes, and profound insights.

Lucas' writing is elegant and evocative, transporting readers to the heart of nature. Her passion for the natural world shines through on every page, making "One Midsummer's Day" a truly enriching experience.

In conclusion, "One Midsummer's Day" is a jewel of a book that offers a unique perspective on the wonders of life on Earth. Through the captivating story of swifts and the profound insights into the interconnectedness of all life, Caroline Lucas MP has created a masterpiece that will inspire and educate readers of all ages. This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to deepen their understanding of the natural world and appreciate the beauty and complexity of our planet.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787332799