Hatchards

(Hardback)

by robbie.wyild

A great book that really opened my eyes to the history of woodlands in UK. It sheds light on our woodlands, the influence they have on humans and humans have on them. A true mutualistic relationship that unfortunately has weakened over time. The book provides guidance and suggestion on how we can re-strengthen our relationship with woodlands going into the future and create healthier woods once again. A great book definitely worth a read or listen.

(Hardback)

by Neil Mainprize

This book is full of fascinating, deep insights into trees and woodland, and Barley is a knowledgeable, warm, very human narrator - like a friend telling you an interesting story in the pub.

(Hardback)

by Clare Matthews

It's rare to find a book that imparts so much knowledge in such a personal and friendly way. You can smell the woodland and hear the birds. Just lovely.

(Hardback)

by Roderick Leslie

I've been worried that our understanding of ancient woodland is slipping away. Many commentators don't seem to have read Oliver Rackham and many people now expect to find giant old trees in ancient woodland. Luke Barley puts it all right - he clearly explains, and understands, our two types of ancient woodland, pasture woodland (yes, big trees) and coppice woodland (more like srub, but with the oldest trees of all). He explains how men and nature have interacted over at least 1,000 years to create something unique 'semi-natural' woodland, not completely natural but not artificial either, and unique in its own right. He also understands the cultural significance - not least because he's worked in these woods himself. Oliver Rackham blew away the idea that woods were saved out of sentiment - our ancestors wouldn't have had houses and would have frozen in winter if they'd destroyed our woods. Here too is the birth of the industrial revolution. Luke intertwines the facts with his own story and some lovely reflections on the beauty of these woods and their wildlife. I hugely admire the skill of his writing which effortlessly brings together the strands of the story and unlike many recent books he doesn't allow his human story to take over from the woods. A great book and essential read for anyone interested in ancient woodland. Roderick Leslie

(Hardback)

by jazzy.in.the.wild

Did you know there are more ancient trees in Britain than in the rest of Europe combined?! Luke Barley has spent much of his life working to revive our ancient woodlands, rehabilitating them to support all the birds, butterflies, wildflowers & a whole range of other species that rely on them to survive. You might be surprised to learn that our precious remaining ancient woodlands rely on human management to thrive, and this often involves chopping & clearing parts of the woods... Ancient is a delightful recount of Barley's 20 years as a ranger, restoring woodlands across the country. Sharing conservation success stories, our history in the woods and spotlighting the many species that rely on this vital habitat. 'If you can imagine a fairy popping out from behind a tree, you're probably in an ancient wood.' Thank you @profile.books for the #gifted review copy!

This reviewer received a free of charge product for review.

Ancient: Reviving the Woods That Made Britain: Hatchards Signed Edition