The Jay, The Beech and the Limpetshell: Finding Wild Things With My Kids

Richard Smyth's book "The Wild Places" is a combination of history, memoir, and environmentalism that explores his relationship with the natural world and imagines the world his children might inhabit as they grow up. It is described as generous, moving, and alive, and as a gift.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: Icon Books

Richard Smyth's writing is a captivating blend of generosity, emotion, and vitality. His work, such as "Greenery" and "The Glitter in the Green," showcases his deep connection with the natural world and his ability to convey its beauty and complexity to readers.

Smyth's writing is characterized by its thoughtful and engaging nature. He delves into the intricacies of our relationship with the environment, exploring the wonders of the natural world on our doorstep. Through his vivid descriptions and insightful observations, Smyth invites readers to appreciate the beauty and fragility of the world around us.

One of the standout qualities of Smyth's writing is his ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing. He reflects on his own childhood experiences and wonders whether the natural world was richer, more vibrant, and more alive when he was a child. This reflection is not only personal but also serves as a broader commentary on the loss of natural habitats and the decline of biodiversity.

Smyth's writing is also deeply rooted in history and environmentalism. He weaves together historical accounts of early natural historians and their observations of the natural world with his own experiences and observations. This combination of history and personal narrative creates a unique and powerful form of nature writing that challenges readers to think critically about our relationship with the environment and our place in the world.

In "Greenery," Smyth explores the relationship between humans and the natural world, examining the ways in which we have both harmed and benefited from our interactions with the environment. He highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and the devastating consequences of human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change. Through his writing, Smyth encourages readers to take action and make a positive impact on the environment.

"The Glitter in the Green" is another example of Smyth's thoughtful and engaging writing. In this book, he explores the beauty and fragility of the natural world, particularly the impact of human activities on ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Smyth's writing is filled with vivid descriptions of the natural world, from the lush forests to the delicate ecosystems of coral reefs. He also raises important questions about the role of humans in preserving the natural world and the consequences of our actions.

Smyth's writing is not only informative but also deeply moving. He has a talent for capturing the essence of the natural world and conveying its emotional impact on readers. His writing evokes a sense of wonder, awe, and appreciation for the world around us, reminding us of our connection to the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

In conclusion, Richard Smyth's writing is a testament to the power of words to inspire, educate, and move readers. His thoughtful and engaging nature, combined with his deep connection with the natural world, creates a unique and powerful form of nature writing that challenges us to think critically about our relationship with the environment and our place in the world. Through his vivid descriptions and insightful observations, Smyth invites readers to appreciate the beauty and fragility of the natural world and to take action to preserve it for future generations.

Weight: 355g
Dimension: 224 x 143 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785788024