One of the earlier books in the series by this author, this book is a critique of the 'market fundamentalist' policies adopted after the 1970s under the leadership of Reagqan and Thatcher and the neo-classical and monetarist economists like Friedman. The author lays bare the disastrous consequences of this short-term, profits-centric approach of corporations and governments under the tutelage of the Americans, the baleful effect of financial results being given precedence over long-term production values, the general dismantling of the labour and social welfare frameworks, and so on on British industry and society. The author draws a contrast with the generally more social-democratic approach still surviving in mainland Europe, East Asia, and other parts of the developed and developing worlds. He urges a return to what he terms 'stakeholder' strategies in corporate management, and inveighs against the excesses of the 'shareholder' approach, where returns to shareholders are given priority, resulting in low investment for the future, hollowing out of the manpower and machinery, and greedy take-over bids to cash in on the unrealised value of existing companies instead of investing in new enterprises. ( )

Joy of Nature takes the natural history genre and filters it for the outdoor enthusiast. Alongside chapters dedicated to general ecology, various biomes, and earth sciences are insets on relevant activities, as well as a chapter of their own.

How can I give this book away when I haven't tried all the 111 activities in the 317 page book? That's a guided field trip on every third page.

I have dozens of natural history and related books, and this one earns its spot among them. If you love nature for both the science and physical enjoyment, Joy of Nature will be a good choice for your personal library. ( )