Books We Are Loving In May
We're stoked to highlight a fantastic array of books that we have in store and available to order online. We've selected a range of books that cater to diverse interests including camping, nature, and cookbooks to get you pumped for your next adventure!
Here’s a closer look at each book we're excited about in May.
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Camping and Outdoor Activities
Camping Around Australia
"Camping Around Australia," now in its fifth edition, is the definitive guidebook for recreational campers, listing over 3,000 campsites across the continent.
It provides detailed information on facilities and activities at each site, including dog-friendly spots, free campsites, hot showers, boat ramps, and camper trailer access. Organised by state and territory, each campsite is numbered and cross-referenced with atlas maps for easy navigation.
The guide includes descriptions on how to reach each site, booking requirements, and updated listings reflecting recent events like the 2019 Black Summer bushfires, major floods, and the COVID-19 pandemic. With stunning photos and a list of favourite campsites, this guide makes finding the perfect spot to camp under the stars easier than ever.
Why we like this book
Very handy, easy to use, lots of places to go and good step by step information.
The Camping Cookbook
Heather Thomas's "The Camping Cookbook" is an essential companion for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor dining experience. Featuring over 60 recipes, this cookbook offers a variety of meals perfect for the great outdoors, including hearty breakfasts, one-pot wonders, barbecues, and drinks.
The book includes recipes like Campfire Nachos, Mexican Chilli Fried Eggs with Avocado Mash, Greek Style Charcoal-Grilled Lamb, and Spicy Marshmallow Hot Chocolate, you can transform your camping meals from simple to stylish!
Ideal for use with a portable stove, barbecue, or fire pit, this cookbook ensures you can enjoy delicious, gourmet meals under the stars.
Why we like this book
Contains useful recipes, perfect for beginning campers they will find plenty of useful information in this one!
Boating
Small Vessels Manual
The "Small Vessels Manual (1st Edition)" is an essential training guide for operating small vessels in Australian waters, applicable across Australia's marine industry. This contemporary marine safety guide is beneficial for vessel operators, marine trainees, maritime career aspirants, and those living or working on boats.
The book covers 26 chapters on crucial topics such as operational risk and safety management, pollution prevention, safe navigation, machinery and systems, vessel stability and seaworthiness, communications, and vessel handling.
Enjoy richly illustrated content with over 150 colour plates, this manual is indispensable for Masters of National Standard Commercial Vessels (NSCV) and serves as a practical study guide for various maritime certificates.
Why we like this book
Expertly covers all aspects of small boat operations! From safety through to maintenance; we think it's an essential for any small vessel owner.
Nature and Wildlife
The Secret Life of Fish
"The Secret Life of Fish" by biologist Doug Mackay-Hope delves into the fascinating lives of 50 of the most compelling fish species in our oceans and waterways. This insightful book explores how fish think, what they know, their unique behaviours, and the surprising traits we share with them.
Grouped into thematic chapters such as Dangerous and Deadly, Unusual Giants, and Mini Marvels, the book provides a captivating look at these elusive creatures.
The book features charming watercolour diagrams and expert insights, it's a must-read for anyone curious about the astonishing truths of our aquatic cousins.
Why we like this book
Captivating illustrations, detailed fish biographies, and an engaging writing style. We loved the blend of scientific information with personal anecdotes and humour - it really made the book educational and entertaining!
100 Australian Wildflowers
100 Australian Wildflowers" by Mel Baxter is a beautifully illustrated guide that serves both as a practical field and planting guide and a visual delight. Through detailed botanical illustrations and engaging descriptions, Baxter introduces readers to 100 native Australian flowering plants. '
The book highlights the cultural, historical, and spiritual significance of these wildflowers, including their traditional and edible uses by First Nations people, with many plant names listed in First languages.
Emphasising conservation, it provides a basic planting guide, advice on creating a wildflower meadow, and tips on where to find these flowers in the wild. It really inspires readers to connect with Australia's landscapes and cultivate their own relationship with wildflowers.
Why we like this book
It's a stunning, well-written book featuring beautiful illustrations and engaging descriptions of Australia's most spectacular wildflowers, this one is perfect for the nature enthusiasts!
Bush Food
Bush Tukka Guide
Samantha Martin's "Bush Tukka Guide (2nd Edition)" is an enriched field guide offering extensive insights into Australia's bush foods. Known as the Bush Tukka Woman, Jaru woman Samantha Martin shares her deep knowledge, inherited from her family and First Nations Elders.
This updated edition includes over 20 additional bush foods, new photography, and Martin's artwork. The guide is divided into three chapters—plants, animals, and recipes—providing detailed descriptions, distribution maps, and safety warnings.
Readers will learn to identify and utilise native flora and fauna such as Kakadu plums and magpie goose, with nutritional information and recipes like bunya nut pesto and lemon myrtle slow-cooked kangaroo. This guide serves as a valuable resource for understanding and appreciating the abundance of bush foods known to First Nations People for centuries.
Why we like this book
Informative and engaging book on Australian native foods, featuring detailed descriptions, recipes, and vibrant illustrations, perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts.
Dinosaurs
A Dinosaur A Day
A Dinosaur A Day" offers a fascinating journey through the world of dinosaurs, featuring a new dinosaur for each day of the year.
The book provides an engaging daily exploration of these astonishing creatures, from the ferocious Tyrannosaurus to the gentle Titanosaurus.
Readers will encounter both well-known and newly discovered species, all vividly brought to life with stunning illustrations and intriguing facts. With beautiful artwork and attractive packaging, this book is the ultimate gift for dinosaur enthusiasts aged 6 and up, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Why we like this book
Beautifully illustrated, informative book offering fascinating dinosaur facts and vibrant artwork, perfect for children and dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages!
Travel and Adventure
Undiscovered Victoria
"Undiscovered Victoria" is a visually stunning travel guide by the One Hour Out team, designed to inspire exploration of hidden locations throughout regional Victoria. This guide goes beyond well-known attractions like the Twelve Apostles and Phillip Island penguins, featuring secret waterfalls, secluded beaches, farm tours, art galleries, and unique wine bars. It includes beautiful photography, suggested itineraries, First Nations information, historical facts, and interviews with locals, making it an indispensable companion for uncovering Victoria's lesser-known treasures.
Why we like this book
A perfect choice for getting ideas to plan a trip, or even simply as a coffee table book as it's filled with beautiful shots of the amazing experience Victoria has to offer. Great for casual reading or to keep with you on your getaway in Victoria.
So, grab a book, pack your bags (or settle into a comfy chair)!
From practical guides to help you navigate the great outdoors to captivating glimpses into the natural world and beyond, the books we selected offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
P.S. Don't forget to check out our website for more exciting finds and recommendations!
We hope you find inspiration and enjoyment from our curated book selection. Happy reading and exploring!
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