James Merryweather has been studying ferns for more than fifty years, developing a particular interest in their identification and ecology. Having learned so much from generous pteridologists past and present, he now eagerly shares that knowledge and experience with others. He is an enthusiastic member of the British Pteridological Society, which promotes the study of this fascinating group of plants.
An excellent book. . . . The conversational approach taken will engage with many readers getting to grips with these plants for the first time. It is, as it claims to be, user-friendly. The many photographs are good and well selected, the keys, hints and tips fine-honed, and the book looks handsome but robust enough to survive field use. It is strongly recommended. ---Fred Rumsey, British Wildlife What makes this one stand out is its approach to demystify the intricacies and language of the botany of ferns. . . . I would recommend this book both to those with a passing interest and wish to know more as well as to someone who considers themself to be an expert. ---Colin Ward, The Garden This is yet another ground-breaking WILDGuides initiative: as the first portable photographic field guide to British ferns, it really plugs a gap in the British identification literature. ---Chris Sharpe, Curious Naturalist In his introduction James Merryweather says that this book might seem too bulky to be a comfortable pocket field guide; I would argue that the quality of this books will make people find a pocket big enough to carry it in the field. ---Steven Rutherford, British Naturalist's Association [Merryweather] is also a skilled photographer and this lavishly illustrated book is a kaleidoscopic distillation of knowledge and experience gathered over more than fifty years. . . . If you have any interest in the British flora, whether as a beginner or old hand, it is an essential acquisition, and quite exceptional value for money. ---Ian M. Evans, Highland Naturalist [An] attractive book, which is highly recommended. ---Chris Page, Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland WILDGuides simply do not make bad books and there is everything to admire here . . . it's as detailed as any birding field guide in pointing out salient features. ---Bo Beolens, Fat Birder Britain's Ferns is intended to provide a practical and functional approach to the identification of ferns, and it works! . . . There are distribution maps, notes of conservation status and reference to similar species for comparison. These entries are truly excellent and lift the book well beyond its central function of mere identification to one providing interesting, informative and enjoyable reading also. ---Paddy Tobin, Irish Garden Plant Society