The Curious Life of the Cuckoo
(Autor) John Lewis-StempelThe perfect gift for nature lovers, in this beautifully illustrated small format hardback, John Lewis-Stempel delves into the cuckoo's unique behaviour and captivating role in our cultural imagination, in folklore, myth, literature and music, turning his exquisite prose to one of the strangest tales of the countryside. --- Is there any bird more mysterious than the cuckoo? It is invariably heard, and not seen. And if seen, it is mistaken for a sharp-winged hawk. The female cuckoo - by a trick that borders on alchemy - is able to disguise its egg as another's. In Greek myth the god Zeus assumed the form of a cuckoo to seduce Hera. But we forgive the cuckoo its con-artistry, because it is the true herald of spring. It is the bird that uplifts our wintered hearts, with that first two-note 'cuk-koo' unmistakable as it sounds across the country. In The Curious Life of the Cuckoo, John Lewis-Stempel explains one of nature's greatest enigmas in vivid, lyrical prose, and celebrates this iconic bird. --- 'That John Lewis-Stempel is one of the best nature writers of his generation is undisputed.' - Country Life 'His immense, patient powers of observation - along with a flair for the anthropomorphic - mean he is able to offer a portrait of animal life that's rare in its colour and drama.' - Observer 'Engaging, closely-observed and beautiful ... this author's deep love of the world around him is as inspiring as it is entertaining.' - Daily Mail 'John Lewis-Stempel is the hottest nature writer around.' - Spectator 'It's his observation of the natural world - the sight, the sound, the smell of it - that is so memorable. He has a distinctively brisk, muscular style of writing that has a poetic intensity and concision. - Guardian 'His prose is immaculate' - Der Spiege 'Lewis-Stempel sees and hears things others will never see and hear, and he can write about them as no one else can.'- Daily Mail: Summer Reads
John Lewis-Stempel
John Lewis-Stempel is a British author known for his works in the field of natural history and rural living. His writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose and deep connection to the natural world. He has published over 40 books, including "Meadowland" and "The Running Hare," which have received critical acclaim for their vivid descriptions of the British countryside.
Lewis-Stempel's contributions to literature include his ability to transport readers to the beauty and wonder of the natural world through his immersive storytelling. His work has had a significant impact on the nature writing genre, inspiring readers to appreciate and protect the environment.
One of his most famous works is "The Wild Life," which won the Thwaites Wainwright Prize for Nature Writing in 2015. This book delves into the history and future of the British countryside, highlighting the importance of preserving its biodiversity and wildlife. Through his writing, John Lewis-Stempel has become a prominent voice in the field of nature writing, inspiring readers to reconnect with the natural world and protect it for future generations.
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