This is destined to become a classic. Barnes introduces the fifty most 'obvious' birds in the UK. Each brief chapter gives a knowledgeable overview of a bird; not only where they're found and what they look and sound like but how to actually spot them. His tips and insights on technique and approaches to see them are about an attitude of mind; ways of getting your 'eye in'.... and it really does work. In the walks I've taken in the few days that I've had the book I've spotted loads more stuff. It almost has a talismanic quality. I read the chapter on the Sparrow Hawk and thought - well that's one I'll need luck and time for. The very next day I was out in the garden and saw one high up (I would have seen it anyway but now I recognised it) and I was ready to watch the following attack on the pigeons! So its a practical guide that works.Better than that is the fact that it's a hugely enjoyable read, written in the romp along style that has made Barnes a star sports writer. His passion and enthusiasm really shine through. I'm sure that even 'good' birdwatchers', those who make lists and stuff, will enjoy reading it and no doubt learn a thing or two.
So if you're even remotely interested in birds and want to know a bit more this comes highly recommended. If you're like me you can expect some pleasant surprises as a consequence of picking it up. And I haven't even got 'How to be a bad birdwatcher' yet...
