The Secret Life of a Meadow by Wilson Wall, David Morgan

The Secret Life of a Meadow

by Wilson Wall and David Morgan

Glorious flower meadows were part of our life force for 2000 years or more before we swept them away last century on the altar of progress. Is there to be no more drinking from their font of well being? This book says not. Lavishly illustrated, it describes their history and, from the few remaining examples, it shows us how beautiful they are, how rich in plants and animals. It coaches us in their creation, even in small gardens, or their restoration in larger fields. It tells of the extraordinary lives of even the most ordinary denizens, little secrets that make the meadow's world go around and the convoluted links between the many plants and animals that keep everything in balance. Their stories are woven, season-by-season, into a year in the life of two meadows, a small, garden meadow and a larger old paddock. We hear of birds that plant trees, bacteria that become plant organelles, plants that drink from other plants, plants that fool or poison insects and insects that turn the tables, ants that foster butterflies, mice that navigate by compass, snails that house bees and how all of these connections, together with the flow of energy and nutrients, result in a healthy ecosystem. The book even suggests how adults and children alike can see these things for themselves. So, read this book and help your local green space to become a meadow and revel in it.

Reviewed by annieb123 on

5 of 5 stars

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Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

The Secret Life of a Meadow is a well written and beautifully photographed monograph on different types of meadowland and conservation and considerations by Wilson Wall & David Morgan. Due out 30th Aug 2023 from Pen & Sword on their White Owl imprint, it's 176 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

Since the second world war, 97% of the meadowland within the UK has disappeared, mostly in aid of expanded agricultural use. The authors write expressively and poignantly about the loss of habitat both in terms of biodiversity as well as cultural terms. 

The book's logical layout allows the reader to retain information, concentrate on the gorgeous full colour photography, and ease finding information later. There are no chapter notes, but the authors/publisher have included a good cross-referenced index, and abbreviated resources and links lists for further reading. 

Five stars. This would make an excellent choice for public library acquisition as well as for readers who enjoy natural history and nonfiction selections.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

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