Silver Shoals: Five Fish That Made Britain

Charles Rangeley-Wilson's book, "Silver Shoals," is a captivating journey through the British Isles, exploring the histories, lives, and past of iconic fish like cod, carp, eels, salmon, and herring, and the fishermen who catch them. It highlights the intricate relationship between humans and fish in the 21st century and emphasizes the fishermen's passion and dedication to their craft.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2019
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

A captivating and essential book that captivates readers from the very first pages with an enthralling, gripping, and frequently humorous journey. Renowned author Robert Macfarlane has crafted a unique history of our island tale, weaving together the stories of five iconic fish that have played pivotal roles throughout our nation's history.

On these windswept islands in the North Atlantic, a deep and enduring bond has existed between man and fish for centuries. Fish have become an integral part of the fabric of our country's history, serving as a vital source of food, livelihood, and entertainment. However, in the intricate and complex 21st century, the fate of these aquatic creatures now rests squarely upon us, in a relationship that has grown increasingly intricate, passionate, and precarious.

In his book "Silver Shoals," Charles Rangeley-Wilson embarks on a remarkable expedition across the British Isles, tracing the histories, present circumstances, and past lives of these iconic fish. From the northern shores to the southern coasts, from the eastern seaboard to the western shores, Rangeley-Wilson explores the rich tapestry of our island story, unearthing the profound connections between man and fish.

Joining him on this captivating journey are trawlermen, longshoremen, conservationists, and anglers, who share their expertise and experiences. Charles embarks on a trawler, spends lazy afternoons setting eel nets, attempts to catch his first elusive carp, and drifts for herring on Guy Fawkes night, as fireworks fill the sky with vibrant colors. Throughout this adventure, Rangeley-Wilson underscores the historical significance of these creatures, shedding light on their abundance and value centuries before our current crisis of overfishing. He reveals how eels constructed our monasteries, how cod sank the Spanish Armada, and how fish and chips became a beloved national dish.

"Silver Shoals" is not merely a travelogue; it is a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between man and fish. It serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures that have shaped our island story. Through his vivid storytelling and insightful observations, Rangeley-Wilson invites readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world and to recognize the critical role that fish play in our collective destiny.

This book is a must-read for anyone who has a passion for the outdoors, history, or the wonders of the ocean. It offers a captivating glimpse into the past, present, and future of our iconic fish and the fishermen who dedicate their lives to catching and caring for them. "Silver Shoals" is a testament to the enduring power of human-nature connections and a call to action for us to embrace our role in preserving the delicate balance of our marine ecosystems.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 132 x 198 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784703653