36 Islands
In Search of the Hidden Wonders of the Lake District and a Few Other Things Too
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Orion Publishing Co
Published:10th Nov '22
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This engaging exploration of the Lake District's islands reveals a journey of self-discovery and historical reflection. 36 Islands captivates with its rich narrative.
In 36 Islands, Robert Twigger takes readers on an evocative journey through the Lake District, exploring its 36 islands, each with its own unique charm. With a deep-seated passion for uninhabited lands, Twigger sets out in an inflatable canoe, inspired by the writings of Arthur Ransome and Alfred Wainwright. His adventure is not just a physical exploration, but also a philosophical one, as he delves into the historical and literary significance of these islands, revealing the stories that lie beneath the surface of the water.
As he navigates through the tranquil waters, Twigger encounters islands that range from mere rocks to lush havens for wildlife. His experiences are enriched by curious historical facts and literary references, which add depth to his reflections. The narrative is interspersed with philosophical musings, inviting readers to ponder their own relationship with nature and solitude. The journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about the landscapes he traverses.
36 Islands invites readers to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, encouraging them to embrace the serenity of the Lake District. Twigger's vivid descriptions and thoughtful insights create a tapestry of adventure and contemplation, making this book a must-read for those who appreciate the beauty of nature and the stories it holds.
A Swallows and Amazons adventure for the modern day by one of the most interesting travel writers working today: 36 Islands is a journey to the forgotten parts of the Lake District that weaves together philosophy, psychology, poetry, literature, folk-lore, angry swans and damp pot noodles, and reminds us of the healing power of the forgotten wildernesses close by us * Dr Bijan Omrani, author of Caesar's Footprints *
A headlong plunge into the deep, dark waters of the Lake District and its islands. Packed with curious historical facts, philosophical and literary footnotes and a highly entertaining sense that every other visitor to the Lakes is an interloper, you can feel the chill of waters creeping into your bones as Twigger paddles his way to some of the most inaccessible spots of this liminal hinterland. I really enjoyed it * Shaun Bythell, author of Diary of a Bookseller *
Robert Twigger has an inexhaustible curiosity, a childlike desire to explore and bags of energy.... the author is full of stories... He visits all the well-known lakes (and some not - who has heard of Devoke Water?), exploring islands that inspired Beatrix Potter and William Golding, as well as the ever-present Ransome. It's usually raining, but he's an irrepressible optimist... The world is a better place with adventurers such as Mr Twigger about -- Fiona Reynolds * COUNTRY LIFE *
Armed only with an inflatable canoe, Twigger - a man resolutely fascinated by uninhabited isles - journeys beyond the tourists and busy roads to explore Cumbria's finest. In doing so, he visits both real and remembered islands, drawing inspiration from the Lakeland poets, Alfred Wainwright and others, to redraw his own map of the Lakes and visit a place very different to the one we know * Wanderlust, The Best Travel Books of 2022 *
Beguiling . . . Here is a man who believes that through living actively rather than passively, we better value our place in this beautiful world. Here's to that * Countryfile *
ISBN: 9781474621625
Dimensions: 218mm x 140mm x 34mm
Weight: 426g
304 pages