There is something for everyone in The Countryman. Whether you are a country dweller, an urban nature lover, an amateur historian, or a budding naturalist, the variety of subjects covered is a real treasure trove. From the toad to the bumblebee, the cuckoo to the pheasant, the life cycle of the dragonfly, the attractions of the nightjar and the dove, the development of sheep breeds and the value of the cottager's pig - these are just some of the characters of the natural world as described by Johnny Scott. What are the origins of Oak Apple Day and when and where is it still celebrated? What do you know about Morecambe Bay shrimps or gulls' eggs - how do they make the journey from harvest to plate? What is a hag stone and what is its connection to a horse brass? Do you know what marl is and where would you find it? Answers to these questions and so many others are to be found within these pages. The author's acute powers of observation and fluent style enable him to convey his lifelong experiences and knowledge of the natural world in an informative but accessible way. His understanding of the origins of country customs and celebratory festivals is extensive, and his affection for them and all that the countryside has to offer shines through. Be prepared to be enlightened, amazed or amused - or probably all three!

The Countryman Sets Forth Again is a wonderful compilation of articles covering a range of eclectic rural and countryside subjects. There is something for everyone to discover from the ancient language of field sports to the treasures to be found in old barns; the history of the landscape to dryland husky racing and much more. Divided into seasonal sections and featuring more than forty-five chapters, many of the articles have appeared in The Field magazine. Here are all aspects of country life described in vivid detail, from the flora and fauna to the folklore. Descriptions of ancient customs feature alongside accounts of pigeon racing and hound trailing; and stories of exotic plant hunters from past centuries. Readers will encounter mad March hares, owls, ravens, bats, pike, eels, and the rare capercaillie. Other subjects include coppicing, ancient trees, hanging game, stoats, terriers and, that perennial British favourite, the weather. The author also takes us back to his childhood with memories of charcoal burners and of harvesting wild food. Combining his engaging writing, expert insight and immense knowledge, Johnny Scott is a master at celebrating and chronicling the countryside. In this book he continues to convey his wisdom and affection for the magic of nature and rural life.

Published in co-operation with Shooting Times, this is a collection of the best writing by their popular columnist Alasdair Mitchell, who is featured each week in his 'Sharpshooter' column. Covering all aspects of the countryside from field sports to conservation, nature and wildlife this book will appeal to everyone with an interest in rural life and to the many thousands of readers who have followed his contributions over the last 20 years.

As energy and food prices continue to rise, there is no better time for the publication of the revised edition of this authoritative and practical guide on how to be self-sufficient. It is divided into three sections - The Green Outdoors, covering how to grow your own food, wild food, and livestock; The Green You, teaching you how to make and create to save money, use your garden produce and home brew; and The Green House with ideas on how to make your house greener, cheaper and more in harmony with nature. The book explores the little changes you can make to everyday habits, like picking wild food or using natural paints, as well as the larger changes, including keeping livestock, and lets you to take sustainable living as far as you want to - whatever size house you live in.