Al-Andalus by Clive Finlayson

[John C]

I cannot recommend this book too highly.  It's written by Gibraltarian Clive Finlayson who is not only an expert ornithologist (and natural historian), but also a well respected expert on Neanderthals.  He certainly knows his history.   This is an handsomely illustrated book and takes a wide ecological view of the history of Iberia.  Absolutely brilliant and at times thought provoking.  If you're a member of this forum there's really no excuse not to get a copy,

John 

[Clive]

Hi John. looks like an interesting book

I have added it to our forum bookshop and it can be found on page two of the Spanish history section...

It's out of stock at the moment though

Clive

[Clive]

What an incredible book..... I received my copy a few weeks ago after buying it from page one of the history section at the forum bookshop ..... Not finished reading it yet but I am finding it to be one of the best ever... It is answering questions about many subjects that we have covered here on the forum and in my opinion is an essential addition to anyone's bookshelf.... Especially if you happen to live in and have an interest in the nature of Iberia...

Comprising the major part of the southern Iberian peninsula, the al-Andalus region is seen by many as an area of outstanding natural beauty and rare wildlife - from the vision of a single Bearded Vulture soaring majestically in the sky to small herds of Spanish Ibex in mountain passes - its richness and diversity is unrivalled in Europe.Yet, less than 700 years ago, there were Bearded Vultures in every valley in the region, herds of Ibex roamed the cliffs and screes of the entire coast, and wild wolves prowled in the night.This evocative volume takes readers on a journey through the region, from the coast and green valleys to the mountains, showing how the land has changed - sometimes for better and sometimes for worse - but always drawing the reader's eye to the amazing sights that flawlessly capture the heart and soul of al-Andalus and its rich heritage.

This synopsis is not quite correct as the book covers the human impact on the Iberian environment from Gibraltar to Gredos to The Cantabrian mountains and Asturias....

As I am reading it I am making notes in the margin for further research....

Great book.... Five stars from me.....Just buy it.....

Clive

[John C]

My undoubted pleasure that Clive has caught up with this marvellous (and very reasonably priced) book, is only marred by the unfortunate discovery that he's a book scribbler!  OK I know it's your book, but, Clive, how could you?!   Books are sacred and adding imarginalia is blasthemy!   

Seriously, I'm pleased that Clive's post has flagged up this book again as it really is, or should be, required reading ..... and now you all know where you can get a copy!

John

[Clive]

Hi all...

I just read a small piece from another book by Clive Finlayson.... I really like his style of writing..... The BBC have an extract at.....

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8430276.stm

Anyone got this book "The Humans Who Went Extinct. Why Neanderthals died out and we survived" ?