I unashamedly love Melissa Harrison’s writing. I’ve read everything she’s written, and was not disappointed with this book.

It’s essentially a collection of her Times nature columns, but unedited and unabridged. Chronological, and by default thus separated into city / country living, it’s a great view of nature from both perspectives. It can feel a little ‘jumpy’ at times as they’re effectively diary entries in their own right, but that also makes it perfect to dip in and out of.

Personal opinion, facts, and shared knowledge make this a gentle, absorbing read, and will make you yearn for the outdoors.