Welsh Journals

scope is very wide, and the inclusion of many non-British species could lead to confusion when studying the illustrations, although the geographical range of each species is clearly stated in the text. Regrettably there is no Key, hence identification must involve random searching through pictures and print. Nevertheless the introductory chapters, glossary and descriptions of families and species are of a high standard, and the book will be a helpful addition to the library of any aspiring malacologist. M.R.H. Fishes of the British and Northern European Seas. J. Miller Christensen, Penguin Nature Guides (1978), pp 128, £ 1.95. Up to date, eminently readable, attractively presented and liberally illustrated, this book is a "must" for anyone interested in fish biology. It includes a well balanced appraisal of modern fisheries, and their effect on the marine ecosystem. Occasionally the spelling departs from the traditional, but at El.95 this is very good value. M.R.H. The Complete Guide to Country Living. Suzanne Beedell & Barbara Hargreaves, David & Charles (1979), pp 256, £ 6.95. This book lists, in alphabetical order, the answers to most questions you might want to ask about country living. It has advice about legal matters and planning laws; information about animals and plants, country crafts and customs, treeplanting, building of fences and a few hundred more useful hints. The book is a "discursive dictionary" and it gives plenty of information on further reading and useful adresses. I.C.E.J. The Naturalist in Britain: A Social History. David Elliston Allen, Pelican (1978), pp 292, £ 1.25. The appearance of a paperback edition of this, the first social history of the British naturalist, is welcome. Full of fascinating information on individuals and trends, it encompasses botany, entomology, ornithology, geology, as well as the founding fathers (or rather mothers; did you know?) of the RSPB and the dress to be worn by Victorian ladies when beachcombing at low tide. An invaluable book if you are interested in the history of the study of Natural History. A.M.S.K. Butterflies. Paul Whalley, Hamlyn (1979), pp 128, £ 1.95. Small enough not to take up too much room in one's luggage, yet with colour photographs of 147 of the most common British and European butterflies, this could be a most useful book to take on holiday at home or on the continent. The butterflies are shown at rest on plants in their typical surroundings and their colour is accurately reproduced in this addition to the Hamlyn nature guide series. Despite many other butterfly books on the market this should still be able to find a niche for itself. M.J.M