Hannah Dale is a knowledgeable and talented wildlife illustrator. Not only can she paint like a dream, but she studied zoology (that’s the study of wild animals, not zoos) at Cambridge University. So all her books contain interesting facts, not just pretty pictures. Her designs are found in indie gift stores (and surprisingly on bone china mugs).
So give the mugs a miss. Bu check out these beautiful books, they make gorgeous gifts for anyone you know who is entranced by the wildlife with which we share our land. And due to Hannah’s knowledge, the lovely illustrations are paired with all kinds of interesting information.
Born to Be Wild is an illustrated ode to endangered wildlife. Find 100 charming portraits of cubs, chicks and calves (some with mum and dad), some in pride or tribe, and some setting off on their own. Wildlife is now under threat due to climate change, habitat loss, poachers and hunters. Meet orangutans, humpback whales, hedgehogs, penguins, elephants, meerkats and koalas.
Other Books by Hannah Dale
The Country Set features 50 British birds and animals, from the red deer to the harvest mouse, from the sparrow to the barn owl. Smaller pictures include tracks and feathers, to help you identify when they’ve been near.
Flying the Nest is a delightful book of the early days of Britain’s animals. Meet the beautiful ghostly barn owl (the number of chicks is determined by how many rodents there are – unusually for the bird kingdom, the chicks often feed each other). Hedgehog courtship is an awkward affair, considering the prickly nature of the task ahead. Squirrel kittens are born blind with no fur (devoted mums carry the young to a different drey, if disturbed).
The Farmyard Set takes you out of the farm shop and onto the farm where you’ll meet these beautiful barnyard creatures that you may never want to eat again. Meet a Jersey cow, an Indian runner duck, an Aberdeen Angus and Gloucestershire Old Spot (the ‘spots’ were once believed to be bruises, from fallen apples). You’ll also meet a chattering Sussex Hen and equine friends including a Shetland pony and Suffolk Punch (shorter without the ‘feathery feet’ of some Shire horses).
A Dog’s Life looks at our wild domesticated best friends. The 50 dogs profiled include the friendly fun-loving Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Labradors (originally from Newfoundland in Canada, they love swimming and children), German Short-Haired Pointers (webbed feet make them excellent swimmers) and playful diminutive Dachshunds.
