The first thing that impressed me about this pocket book when it appeared on my doormat was the size; the postie managed to get it through the small letterbox with ease! I often read references to titles classed as ‘pocket sized’ or ‘handy sized’ when in most cases they are anything but. However, this little book can certainly claim to be pocket sized, measuring just 8x12cm!
Although small, it loses nothing in the detail and contains 224 pages crammed with information on freshwater and saltwater species of Northern Europe.
I like the way that freshwater and saltwater species have their own sections so it’s easy to find what you are looking for. For each of the 160 species listed you will find a description and illustration, along with details on identification, appearance, feeding, breeding, size, and distribution.
The illustrations by Keith Linsell are first class; my particular favourites being the carp (of course!), bream and common skate.
In addition to the species information you will also find an interesting introduction to fish species covering definitions, pre history, and classifications. At the rear the index is split in two, so you can search by common name or scientific name.
All in all a great little guide that will fit neatly on the shelf or in the tackle box.
Further information can be found at: http://www.harpercollins.co.uk/
You can also buy online by clicking here.
Julian Grattidge
