This relaxed account of one of the most obscure, but possibly most important of the early naturalists is quite a treat for those interested in the field of natural history, those who enjoy a good historical read, or even those who just like to look at the pictures!
John Abbot, like the region in which he worked, was an odd little man who possessed many of the qualities we long for in this country but, some would say, have lost. His tenacity, integrity, adventurousness, artistic ability, and business acumen should have gained him the fame of his more documented colleagues--but then maybe the jewel that is hardest to find shines brightest.
Certainly, this book is a gem. The illustrations are first rate, and the text is even better, with just that touch of British whimsey and the art of understatement to make it all the much better. It is written in an almost off-hand style--but don't be fooled. The research that went into it is first rate and very complete. Relax. This is not the dry, musty tome of History 101--it is full of life but has a casual feel, like a favorite coat that is constantly worn. And that befits the man about whom it is written: a common man, of uncommon traits. Enjoy!!

This book is one in a series on lesser known artists and naturalists whose work has not been published or received any attention. In July 1773, John Abbot left England and spent the next sixty seven years collecting and painting natural history specimens for clients in England, Europe and the United States. He lived primarliy in Georgia and Virginia and spent all his life working to supply other naturalists and collectors with specimens and paintings of drawings of birds, insects and plants.

This books is a fascintating account of John Abbot, his life and his work. It is also a visual treat and if you are interested in the history of natural history or as a naturalist or a art lover I would highly recommended it. The publisher, Merrell Holberton is publishing a series on other Natural hisory artists that have not been published or are lesser known. Enjoy!!

Jamie Wyeth truly captures the spirit of Nureyev! The essays by Barnes, Phyllis Wyeth/Larsen (with intimate photographs by Susan Gray) and Lauren Raye Smith are enlightening, informative and truly moving.

The book would make a wonderful gift for elderly friends and relatives. It takes an in depth look at seniors (some famous faces included) living exciting and productive lives well into their golden years. Pamela Valois' beautiful photography complements the interesting side bar text making for a perfect addition to your cofee table.

These authors teach creative writing and use the results of their classroom curriculum to our benefit. The exercise introduction is by the authors or invited contributors. Each topic contains ample, clear examples to consider before attempting the exercises. The authors provide concise, succinct instructions, and more importantly, the reasons for each exercise. They also suggest expected outcomes as a result of each exercise's completion. They use student submissions (with permission from the students) to show typical exercise results. I find this book in tune with my desire to write good fiction and my current writing skill level. I have found the book very useful. I have incorporated several exercises in my daily writing. I recommend this book to those who do not have easy access to classroom Creative Writing course work. Reviewer: David Haseman

I've done a lot of reading on writing fiction, and this is by far one of the best. While other books talk about how to go about writing, this one gives you exercises designed to guide you to putting those ideas into practice. It's guarenteed to improve your writing! My writing group has used it for about a year and the members love it.

This is an excellent book that gives concise and usefull exercises and tips, rather than babbling about philosophical implications, metaphysical and spiritual nonsense in fiction like other writing workshop authors do. You really get to improve your writing with these simple and fun exercises.

The narration of this book seemed to be very useful and well researched, however, even though a great number of her paintings where present throughout the book, I would have preferred them be in color instead of black and white illustrations. That was most disappointing.