Rewild Yourself: 23 Spellbinding Ways to Make Nature More Visible

Finding time to enjoy the natural world can be hard, but with a few tips and tricks such as those mentioned in Simon Barnes’ Rewild Yourself it becomes possible to make the most of any length of time and location you might find yourself in. A pleasant book, it takes the time to show you how simple actions and equipment can be used in small “spells” to deepen your perception of the natural world.

Each chapter focuses on one tip to reconnect with nature in a closer way than you might imagine, and each chapter starts with a quote or passage from one of the author’s favourite books. Mainly leaning towards those from children’s fantasy novels, I soon understood that these books often gave more open and honest expressions of awe and wonder than found elsewhere. There is a strong focus on observing birds but he does bring in other flora and fauna enough to encourage a wider audience. His most simple and enjoyable tip that I can readily appreciate is to buy a pair of good waterproof trousers. With these (and other accompanying water resistant gear) you can experience nature year round and be able to sit down anywhere at any time to enjoy the world around you.

Whilst it might not take that long to get through, this book is worth reading as a reminder of how easy it can be to re-train yourself to fully enjoy the natural world. The accompanying pen and ink illustrations by Cindy Lee Wright that start each chapter are beautifully done and worth looking out for too, and I have already made a note of specific ideas to test out myself!

Book reviewed by Katharine Bowgen