COUNTRY BOOK OF THE YEAR

THE LOST WORDS ROBERT MACFARLANE AND JACKIE MORRIS

Bluebell, heron, kingsfisher, otter – this stunning spellbook celebrates the vanishing vocabulary of nature. Robert Macfarlane’s poetry is luminious, while Jackie Morris’s illustrations are bewitching. Judge Phoebe Smith says: “A work of art.”

ISLANDER PATRICK BARKHAM

In this tremendous islandhopping book, Patrick Barkham journeys around the 6,300 islands that make up Britain and explores the mindset of those living off the mainland. The islanders’ stories are beautifully told. Judge Fergus Collins says: “A wonderful voyage around our archipelago.”

THE SECRET LIFE OF COWS ROSAMUND YOUNG

Farmer Rosamund Young’s warm and thoughtful book argues that cows are capable of complex behaviour, of self-medicating when sick and aiding each other give birth. A absorbing portrait of her herd. Judge Fergus Collins says: “A welcome reprint of a lovely little book.”

BEYOND SPRING MATTHEW OATES

Naturalist Matthew Oates writes with welcome optimism, recalling wildlife adventures and perfect days in the British countryside. Each one is revealing, uplifting and wise – and accompanied by a stanza or two of verse from Edward Thomas and other lovers of the wild. Judge Fergus Collins says: “A total joy.”

THE WAINWRIGHTS IN COLOUR ANDY BECK

Andy Beck spent 10 years painting all of Alfred Wainwright’s illustrations of the fells, producing an attractive set of watercolours of the famous Lakeland landscapes. You said: “A brilliant companion to the Wainwright guides.” Carole Standing