A beautifully illustrated introduction to the mindful pleasure of pebble spotting Hidden in plain sight along every shoreline, these amazing consequences of wind, sea, and time all tell stories of our landscapes. In this spirited guide to pebbles, richly illustrated throughout, passionate geologist and pebble spotter Clive J. Mitchell gives practical advice on how to identify 40 pebbles and where to find them, making a trip to the beach or riverbank all the more interesting. The pebbles he introduces range from the humble flint to feldspar veins, serpentinite, granite ovoids, and the holy grail of pebble hunting, the rare rhomb porphyry. The book includes a space for the reader to ruminate on their own findings, taking note of the treasures that they pick up along the way. This is the perfect introduction to everything there is to know about the mindful pleasure of pebble spotting--and there is much treasure to find.

Turn a day on the beach or a seaside holiday stroll into a treasure hunt with this lovely little guide to identifying pebbles. Pebble spotting is one of life’s simple joys. There’s nothing quite like searching the rocks on a beach until that special one catches your eye – a perfect shape, a gorgeous colour, an intriguing pattern. But what is it? Use this beautifully illustrated little guide to find out, and to discover your pebble’s fascinating life story and secrets. It could be even more special than you thought... Geologist and passionate pebble spotter Clive Mitchell has created a charming and wonderfully browsable book that is a perfect companion to a day out or holiday, or an idle moment at home. This book contains entries on 40 different types of pebble, complete with detailed facts about the composite rock’s structure and where to find them, with examples including: Flint Feldspar veins Spotted slates Serpentinite Granite ovoids The rare rhomb porphyry - the holy grail of pebble hunting The book includes a space to ruminate on your own findings, taking note of the treasures that you pick up along the way and discovering the secrets of the stones beneath your feet. The Pebble Spotter’s Guide is the perfect introduction to everything you didn’t know there was to know about the mindful pleasure of pebble spotting and the wonder of pebbles. Simply sit on a beach or next to a stream for 10 minutes and find amazing treasures at your feet; there is much to discover.

This is a book about the simple pleasure of pebble spotting. Clarence Ellis is a charming, knowledgeable and witty guide to everything you didn't know there was to know about pebbles. He ruminates on what a pebble actually is, before showing us how they are formed, advising on the best pebble-spotting grounds in the UK, helping to identify individual stones, and giving tips on the necessary kit. You'll know your chert from your schist, your onyx from your agate, and will be on your guard for artificial intruders before you know it. Understanding the humble pebble makes a trip to the beach, lake-side or river bank simply that little bit more fascinating.

A fascinating, inspiring gift book that helps you make the most of nature, with something to spot for every day of the year. This book proves that nature isn't something you visit from time to time; it's everywhere – even in the densest concrete jungle. You can find nearly all of the natural wonders in this book within a mile of your front door. There are 365 to look for – one for every day of year, organised by month. From mushrooms to meteors, from moths to mosses, it’s incredible what you can find when you look. With witty and lyrical text and beautiful illustrations, this is a gift book that will transform how you see the world and build a greater connection to the natural world for the rest of your life.

A fascinating look at the myths, folklore and botany behind over 70 British wildflowers. From hedgerows to meadows, wildflowers can be found throughout our green and pleasant land. In this book, journalist and garden writer Rosamond Richardson traces the history and myths behind each flower to discover the fascinating ways in which the plants were used. Discover which flower used as a medieval lie-detector to test the innocence of suspected criminals, or stuffed in the shoes of Roman centurions to prevent damage to their feet as they marched. From periwinkles, beloved of Chaucer, and the oxlips and ‘nodding violet’ growing in the forest of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the book celebrates the important role wildflowers have played in literature, as well as their uses in food and medicine, and the history, myths and tales behind each species. The nineteenth-century poet John Clare wrote, ‘I love wildflowers (none are weeds with me)'. This book is a celebration of the bountiful history behind Britain’s beloved wildflowers and is perfect for anyone with an interest in gardening, history or the natural world.

Get the best out of your outside space by calling on your garden 'friends'. Introducing helpful wildlife into your garden will help to control pests, maintain a natural chemical-free balance and encourage your garden to bloom, whether you have a large garden, an allotment or a simple window box. Some plants are great 'friends' and are endlessly useful – sweetpeas are good for regenerating tired soil, for example, while marigolds repel pesky greenfly away from your prized cabbages. Birds and other animals such as hedgehogs, bats and frogs are also renowned pest-munchers, while bees, butterflies and other insects will happily pollinate your flowers, fruit and vegetables. Encouraging just a few of these 'friends' into your garden will soon ensure your prized plants are blooming. This practical guide describes all of the wonderful wildlife that is helpful to have in your garden and how to spot them. Packed with hints and tips on how to encourage the critters into your space and make sure they stick around, this guide is a must-have for any gardener.

Why rush through life when you could stop, ponder and truly experience the world around you? This unhurried exploration of the great outdoors encourages you to engage all of your senses and fully appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. With the emphasis on experiencing, rather than simply passing through, Slow Adventures asks us to pause for a moment and reconnect with nature. Try willow weaving in Somerset, rock pooling in East Sussex, wild camping in Cambridgeshire, foraging in Herefordshire, spoon carving in Cumbria, fossil hunting in Yorkshire, lino printing in Monmouthshire, bushcraft in Northumberland, sea kayaking in Inverness-shire and many more memorable experiences. These immersive adventures will awaken your senses, revive your spirits and allow you to make the most of your time in our glorious countryside.

An adventure guide for boys and girls who love the beach

Crawl into the wonderful world of bugs this summer—a fun photographic adventure for kids ages 3 to 5. Take preschool and kindergarten kids on an educational adventure bursting with colorful photographs. The Backyard Bug Book for Kids has a story, pictures, and activities all in one! It's the perfect summer activity to introduce your little one to the types of bugs they're likely to see during their day! Then, help them remember what they've learned with fun, on-the-page challenges. Go beyond other bug books for kids with: Bugs galore—Learn cool facts about familiar insects: ladybugs, grasshoppers, dragonflies, and more. Amazing pictures—See creepy crawlies up close with big and colorful photos that will keep your little one curious and interested in learning during summer bridge learning and beyond. Exciting activities—Continue the learning with all kinds of bug-themed activities. Give your child a bug's-eye view of the world!