When you find a book which claims to get down to the "Basics" of any subject - you should expect to find exactly that. Thankfully, this author understands what that words means and delivers the goods.
I am at the stage where my first bird is flying free and is being trained to hunt and, already, I have learned a great deal from this book. Not only is this an excellent book for beginners, I suspect many of those who think they "know it all" will find some useful information here. The artwork is simple and effective - and it works. The text is well written and easy-to-follow. All the different components of such essential items as, for example, the glove, hawking bag, hood, swing lure, creance (to name but five) are shown in the right amount of detail thus creating no confusion whatsoever.
The book itself measures 10in x 7½in (255mm x 190mm) and is packed with almost 250 pages of basic information about Falconry. Altogether, the author has covered every aspect of the sport from; The law, various birds, housing, equipment, furniture, handling, weights, food, training, travel, dogs, ferrets, fitness, illness, injury and lots more besides.
I would suggest this book is an essential addition to the bookshelf of anyone who keeps birds of prey no matter how experienced the keeper might be. In short, there is something here for everyone.
NM
