This is a lovely book. I am an enormous fan of Ray. His ability to survive by making use of the environment, as a partner, is a stark contrast to many so-called survivalists. This theme - of learning to appreciate and be part of nature - comes across strongly and makes for an excellent read. The book is well produced. Definitely recommended.

Even in the opening chapters it is a delight to read, like listening to Ray in a video! Always educating and thoughtfully presented. We need to be reminded that we need to take care of nature much more and enjoy our fleeting journey within it. Highly recommended in these stressful times to regain some balance and understanding of doing our part.

Yet another great book from Ray Mears, accompanied the tour brilliantly, but as a stand alone book it is also brilliant, beautifully written and gets straight to the point. Also comes signed which is an added bonus another great book for Bushcrafters and people who simply want to get back to nature.

A brilliant read and an essential message in these times of change and challenge. As with all Ray's books, there is a great mixture of foundational knowledge, entertaining and often moving anecdote, and even things for more advanced/experienced practitioners to learn. Crucially - while the subject of the book is very serious and highlights many concerning trends in terms of climate change, habitat loss, and wildlife crime - the central message here is an uplifting one and I finished the book with a renewed sense of determination to protect the wilds I love.

I'm looking forward to seeing the tour next month.

Only had chance to read a little bit yet, still finishing another book, but seems really good :)

I'm enjoying the book so far taking my time to read in between sleep.

In many ways, this is the book which I've always hoped Ray would write. Nature and the natural environment touches every part of our lives, and Ray's argument for a closer connection with Nature is infallible. The book is written in an animated way, and feels like you're listening to Ray around the campfire. The book is illustrated with finely observed accounts of wildlife encounters, and Ray's love for the natural world is clearly evident. It follows in a logical, well presented manner to its final conclusion. It also features some excellent advice on kit, and gives a breakdown of Ray's daily expedition routine, which gives an insight into the author's vast experience of the subject. I've read this book completely twice, and find myself dipping into it regularly. From my own perspective, I know that the more time I spend closely observing nature, the more I have come to realise humanity's place in the natural world and the responsibility upon us. Highly recommended.

Amazing book. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us. Hugs from Rio de Janeiro/Brazil.

Bigknife Adventure Club.

I don't want to spoil reading this book with this review but it is beautifully written and captivating from the first line. I'm on my third time around now after reading from cover to cover. Really enjoying this.

As always, a very well written and interesting book by Ray. Whilst I expect any encounters with Polar Bears and Rhinos to be very, very rare, there was still plenty of useful information for any bushcraft or nature enthusiast.

I love this book. Good lists and recommendations on the gear but, more importantly, lots of insights into the mindset and attitude to have. As always, Ray provides some wonderful stories and experiences that both entertain and reinforce understanding.

As always from Ray a really good read. Plenty of useful ideas and some thought provoking ones. Can't recommend it enough

Book is awesome in everyway from cover to content, a heartfelt connection with nature & the outdoors.

Everyone should absorb.

Put simply the best book I have read in a long time, I don't read as much as I should but I couldn't stop reading. Great balance of useful information, stories and insight. A timely reminder for everyone of human impact on the planet and a fitting way to mark the past 12months of COVID crazyness. Thank you Ray!

This book is a practical guide to reconnecting with nature. This is important enough to reiterate: this book goes beyond philosophy or mere encouragement to explain how to go about creating meaningful interactions with nature. The explanations are solid (e.g. the physiology of hearing, sight, etc.) and the recommendations are down-to-earth (e.g. which loupe to purchase for examining detail in nature). The book will no doubt change the way I look at things when I go out of doors, but I can say that it has even influenced how I look out my office window at the trees nearby.