CHOICE 'Highly Recommended for all readers' June 2021 Vol. 58 No.
10
This stunningly illustrated book goes far beyond a run-of-the-mill
nature guide. It explores the fascinating life histories of Britain's
freshwater fishes, a group of animals which, despite their importance
and ubiquity in our diverse still and flowing fresh waters, has before
now been rarely regarded and respected as 'wildlife'.
Our native fishes tend generally to be considered as simply something
for anglers to catch or for people to eat, yet they work enormously hard
for us. Author Mark Everard, avid nature-watcher, angler and scientist,
shows how freshwater fish provide food, ornamentation, sport and
cultural identity, and highlights their huge importance for conservation
as part of the living ecosystems upon which we all depend. He dives into
the mysteries moving below the surface of our rivers and lakes, bringing
the wonderful and fascinating world of the diversity of British
freshwater fish species into plain sight and into mind.
This unique book features over 100 full-colour photographs by pioneering
photographer and filmmaker Jack Perks, whose work has featured on BBC
Springwatch, The One Show and Countryfile. The book is filled with
technical detail useful to conservationists and biology students. Most
importantly, it is also presented in an accessible, visually attractive
and engaging manner that will appeal to anybody with an interest in the
natural world: the conservation-minded public, the angling community,
and our nation of wildlife enthusiasts.
Whatever your background, this book will open your eyes to our
freshwater fishy wealth, and the many ways in which it enriches our
lives.
