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Down to the River and Up to the Trees

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What to expect

READ BY THE AUTHOR

** A Winner of the Woodland Books of the Year Award **

In a stressful, chaotic world, many of us are turning to nature for a sense of serenity and happiness.

While the idea of the wild outdoors is enticing, though, our busy lives and our location can cause us to become detached from nature. Down to the River and Up to the Trees will show you how to connect with the natural world around you, whether you live in the city or the countryside.

From getting to know the local wildlife, to foraging and creating naturally-sourced masterpieces, Down to the River is brimming with practical information, intriguing quotes and inspirational ideas. Discover how to carve your own spoon; to be able to tell if the moon is waxing or waning; or try forest bathing (surrounding yourself with trees). Learn how to make yourself at home amongst the animals and plants on your doorstep, in harmony with your surroundings. There is space too for you to record your thoughts and findings, whatever shape they take.

Critics Review

'The message from Sue Belfrage is clear - get up, get dressed and get out. And take the kids to reconnect with nature!' - Chris Packham

'A generous, open-hearted book for our times, full of the sheer joy of discovery' - Paul Evans, Guardian Country Diarist

'A lovely book, engaging all of your senses like a walk through the woods. There is so much here to enjoy, whether you live in a town house or country cottage.' - Kevin Parr, author of Rivers Run

'If you don't have a generous, enthusiastic, artist friend to accompany you as you explore the natural world in your neighbourhood be of good heart. Author and artist Sue Belfrage just fits that description as does her beautiful little illustrated book-cum-journal' - Living Woods magazine

'A heartening book about how to reconnect with nature for one's own well-being... written with a warm, light touch, and decorated with attractive illustrations.' - Woodland Awards 2017

'This guide to rediscovering nature in an overly complex world is a real thing of beauty.' - Country Walking Magazine

'This charming little book contains top tips for getting out into wild nature [...] a great gift for those hunting for natural inspiration.' - Countryfile Magazine

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