Artist Jackie Morris and writer Robert Macfarlane, the acclaimed duo behind the bestselling book 'The Lost Words', have announced a new collaboration focused on Britain's bird species. The project, which has granted exclusive extracts to The Guardian, aims to draw attention to the wonder and fragility of the nation's avian populations, many of which are facing significant decline and endangerment.
Their previous work, 'The Lost Words', gained widespread recognition for its enchanting celebration of plants and animals whose names were controversially removed from a popular children's dictionary. That book was praised for its lyrical prose and stunning illustrations, which collectively sought to re-enchant readers with the natural world and encourage a deeper connection to the environment.
The new book is expected to adopt a similar approach, blending Macfarlane's evocative writing with Morris's distinctive artwork to create a compelling tribute to British birds. By focusing on species that are increasingly at risk, the authors hope to foster a greater understanding and appreciation among the public, potentially inspiring conservation efforts.
The plight of Britain's bird species has been a consistent concern for environmental organisations and Government departments, including the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Reports from groups such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) frequently highlight the pressures faced by various species due to habitat loss, climate change, and other factors. This new work by Morris and Macfarlane could serve as a valuable cultural intervention in these ongoing discussions.