{"title":"Books by Tiffany Francis-Baker","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"9780711283190","title":"The Cottage Life","description":"\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Cottage Life\u003c\/i\u003e reflects our collective desire to escape the chaos of modern existence; to live with more purpose, more compassion and more joy.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Cottage Life\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e is an essential guide to slow and simple living, inspired by the \u003cb\u003emagical world of cottagecore\u003c\/b\u003e. To follow the cottagecore aesthetic is to wear \u003cb\u003esecondhand clothes\u003c\/b\u003e that tell their own stories; to \u003cb\u003ebake fresh bread and cakes\u003c\/b\u003e, no matter how wonky the outcome; to \u003cb\u003espend time in nature\u003c\/b\u003e, to observe and draw the plants, to\u003cb\u003e breathe fresh\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003eair \u003c\/b\u003eand to \u003cb\u003econnect with species beyond our own.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e It is taking the time to\u003cb\u003e notice the seasons change\u003c\/b\u003e, or to turn off your screen mindfully and \u003cb\u003epick up an old novel\u003c\/b\u003e instead. It is \u003cb\u003elighting a fire on the first cool night of autumn\u003c\/b\u003e and sipping a fresh cup of tea by the fireplace, or \u003cb\u003ewatching the first spring leaves unfurl\u003c\/b\u003e after the long, dark winter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eCelebrating the small joys in life,\u003c\/b\u003e from the first birdsong of the morning to the taste of ripe plums on a summer afternoon. And, above all else, it is learning to \u003cb\u003eslow down, connect with the world around you\u003c\/b\u003e and be a more \u003cb\u003ecompassionate\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003econscientious \u003c\/b\u003ecitizen of the earth.\u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e Each chapter explores different ways of embracing the cottagecore lifestyle, such as \u003cb\u003einteracting with nature\u003c\/b\u003e,\u003cb\u003e eating seasonally \u003c\/b\u003eand \u003cb\u003egetting creative\u003c\/b\u003e. Inherently low-impact and green, cottagecore \u003cb\u003eembraces reuse and recycling \u003c\/b\u003eand \u003cb\u003ecelebrates an old-fashioned no-waste ethic\u003c\/b\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Fortunately for most, possession of a country cottage is not essential to embody the cottagecore spirit. With guidance on nurturing your home and small touches for interior decoration, \u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Cottage Life\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e brings country living ideals to any space.\u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e Cottagecore is much more than a fashion trend or social media bandwagon. It is a peaceful protest against the darker elements of modern life—\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Cottage Life\u003c\/i\u003e is a gentle embrace with the past, encouraging you to truly enjoy the present and nurture a brighter future.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56294263882101,"sku":"9780711283190","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780711283190_73612ade-9cef-4a02-9dfb-ab3fb04eac12.jpg?v=1786014980"},{"product_id":"9781399405744","title":"Ebb and Flow","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAn inspirational illustrated guide to embracing each season and finding peace, mindfulness and joy throughout the year.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIllustrated throughout with newly commissioned sketches, prints and paintings by the author,\u003ci\u003e Ebb and Flow\u003c\/i\u003e introduces seasonal living and explains why it is increasingly vital for us to reconnect with the seasons. Tiffany Francis-Baker offers practical, science-backed advice demonstrating the mental and physical health benefits of practising mindful, seasonal living.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFollowing the Pagan ‘Wheel of the Year’ through a nature-led calendar, Francis-Baker explains the origins of seasonal Pagan and Celtic names, traditions and events. She outlines the short- and long-term benefits of leading slower lives and encourages us to enjoy closer connections with nature and healthier relationships with our own well-being. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach section begins with an introduction to the season, then details what you can grow and forage, the wildlife you can spot and which seasonal behaviours to look out for. Crafts and seasonal activities demonstrate quick ways to stay connected with the seasons, even at our busiest times, and illustrated spreads explain lunar phases, hibernation, stargazing and more.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith beautiful images, inspiring words and imaginative seasonal crafts, this tactile book has something to help everyone connect with the rhythm of the year and feel more grounded with nature.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56298722099573,"sku":"9781399405744","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781399405744_343e166b-f8e5-4b9d-b755-77b7ecb5786d.jpg?v=1786019211"},{"product_id":"9781399403177","title":"The Bridleway","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWINNER OF THE ELWYN HARTLEY-EDWARDS AWARD FOR EQUINE WRITING, 2023.\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eTiffany Francis-Baker explores how the relationship between humans and horses has shaped the British landscape and how this connection has become part of our nation’s ecosystems. \u003c\/b\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMany of us enjoy walking or riding on bridleways. These ancient networks crisscross the British countryside, but we rarely pause to ponder how they came to be. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTiffany Francis-Baker tells the intriguing history of Britain’s bridleways, revealing how our relationship with horses is deeply woven into the fabric of British culture, from street and pub names to trading routes and coaching inns. She meets the closest living descendants of wild horses and investigates our evolving relationship with horses, exploring equestrian sports, horse fairs, horseback travellers and adventurers, and how humans and horses have worked together for millennia. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePart-domesticated and part-fiercely independent, horses have long captured our imaginations, and in \u003ci\u003eThe Bridleway\u003c\/i\u003e, Francis-Baker reveals how deeply rooted they have been in our culture for thousands of years and how they can help us understand the natural world and our place within it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56298800710005,"sku":"9781399403177","price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781399403177_b173f79a-8be8-418c-8eee-1c7c50891c25.jpg?v=1786019165"},{"product_id":"9781472984746","title":"Concise Foraging Guide","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThis practical pocket guide, published in association with the Wildlife Trusts, includes 194 edible fruits, nuts and seeds, flowers, greens and vegetables, herbs, roots, whole plants, fungi, seaweeds and shellfish that you can forage in the UK and Europe.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach species account includes accurate artworks and concise descriptions outlining essential details to help you identify species in the field, as well as information on where you can find species and helpful tips on how to cook and bake with the food you forage.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe author's introduction offers practical advice on foraging safely and legally and outlines how to prepare and preserve your foraged foods, including making mead and jam, drying herbs, storing mushrooms for later use and how to safely prepare foraged shellfish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56301164429685,"sku":"9781472984746","price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781472984746_df9a7ee0-cb98-4a6a-89ac-b8e0bb7f4b04.jpg?v=1786021179"},{"product_id":"9781784423605","title":"British Goats","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eA lively, engaging introduction to the history of goats and their products in Britain.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEver wondered why a goat’s eyes have rectangular pupils? Or what happened to Thor’s goats each day after they finished pulling his thunderous chariot? Do goat’s milk, cheese and meat represent more ethical food choices than cow and sheep products, and if so, can goat farming play an important role in humankind’s future?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhether you’re an aspiring smallholder, cheese fanatic or simply want to know more about our caprine companions, this guide introduces the fascinating history and folklore of goats and examines the development of goatkeeping in Britain, shedding light on one of our most intelligent, curious and mischievous domestic animals.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt also explains the origins and features of the sixteen British goat breeds and the qualities of their products, and even has a few craft and recipe ideas for you to try.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56304071115125,"sku":"9781784423605","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781784423605_04fa19cb-43a4-4c68-8c09-be575b369479.jpg?v=1786025546"},{"product_id":"9781784424473","title":"Bees and Beekeeping","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBees existed long before human beings, but our future is perhaps more reliant upon them than any other species.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey pollinate 80 per cent of the world’s crops and plants, but how much do we really know about them? Small, clever and mysterious, the honeybee in particular has long been celebrated in human culture as a sacred insect, a symbol of the sun, bridging the gap between our world and the next. They are expert communicators, skilled aviators and natural alchemists, turning fresh nectar into sweet, golden honey.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey are also in trouble and need our help. This beautifully illustrated guide explores the honeybee’s historic relationship with humans, the basics of beekeeping, and how we can help save the bees' dwindling population.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56304656023925,"sku":"9781784424473","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781784424473_7cf83976-8a01-4059-8ec7-e0498cfa3569.jpg?v=1786025558"},{"product_id":"9781784778354","title":"The Dark Skies of Britain \u0026 Ireland","description":"Join expert author Tiffany Francis-Baker on a night-time journey around Britain and Ireland as she reveals the best places for star-gazing. She covers all of the International Dark-Sky Association's Certified Sites (the spots with the darkest skies), as well as the many Discovery Sites (areas where the skies are lighter but are still good for viewing). The first part of the guide introduces the idea of astronomy and why it is such an enticing hobby. It then explores the history behind astronomy, the myths and folklore we associate with the stars, the science behind our horoscopes and star signs, a guide to nocturnal wildlife, information on the issues surrounding light pollution, and practical information on how to stargaze safely and enjoyably. There's also a 'What to Spot' guide to the night sky - an illustrated list of objects visible from the earth's surface and where to find them: constellations, satellites, meteor showers... the Northern Lights. Packed with useful information, it covers everything from easy ways to reduce your light pollution levels to how to identify owls by their calls.The dedicated section of the book lists the best places to visit to observe the night sky clearly, with useful information for visitors included to help you get the most out of your night-sky experience. Geographical coverage ranges from the West Country and South Downs of England to the Scottish Highlands and Ireland. No matter where you are in the country you're never likely to be far from a good place for looking up and gazing at the stars.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305431282037,"sku":"9781784778354","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"9781958417959","title":"Microseasons","description":"\u003cb\u003eSlow down, feel present and live in harmony with nature’s rhythms by discovering the 72 Japanese microseasons.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Inspired by the traditional Japanese calendar, the 72 microseasons help redirect our attention to the natural world. Learn to observe when the white dew shimmers on the grass or the thunder rumbles far away, and to appreciate when springs once frozen flow once more or sparrows begin building their nests. Notice when plums ripen, turning yellow and use the opportunity to savor the sweetness of the season. Each lasting just five to six days, these microseasons are an opportunity to look outside of ourselves, focus on the here and now.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Tiffany Francis-Baker introduces this beautiful and poetic ancient calendar explaining what each microseason represents through words, practical tips, and gorgeous illustrations by artist Tamae Mizukami. With simple ideas for how to embrace slow living and the Japanese philosophy that every day can be a chance to make positive, seasonally minded changes. The perfect gift for those seeking to slow down, plant moms, Japanophiles and fans of all things kawaii.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56309783822709,"sku":"9781958417959","price":16.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781958417959_638559a5-7201-4c1e-9933-ee2a2fc9cd90.jpg?v=1786035182"},{"product_id":"dark-skies","title":"Dark Skies","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDarkness has shaped the lives of humans for millennia, and in \u003ci\u003eDark Skies\u003c\/i\u003e, Tiffany Francis-Baker travels around Britain and Europe to learn more about nocturnal landscapes and humanity’s connection to the night sky.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor a year, Tiffany travels through different nightscapes across the UK and beyond. She experiences 24-hour daylight while swimming in the Gulf of Finland and visits Norway to witness the Northern Lights and speak to people who live in darkness for three months each year. She hikes through the haunted yew forests of Kingley Vale and embarks on a nocturnal sail down the River Dart.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs she travels, Tiffany explores how our relationship with darkness and the night sky has changed over time. In this personal and beautifully written nature memoir, Tiffany Francis-Baker investigates how our experiences of the night-time world have permeated our history, folklore, science, geography, art and literature.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57484128977269,"sku":"9781472964601","price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781472964601.jpg?v=1786266164"},{"product_id":"natural-beauty-book","title":"The Natural Beauty Book","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eLearn to make your own natural beauty products with this collection of organic, beginner-friendly recipes.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn \u003ci\u003eThe Natural Beauty Book\u003c\/i\u003e, environmentalist and forager Tiffany Francis-Baker shares more than 40 everyday recipes that use nourishing, eco-friendly and affordable ingredients. From toothpaste and shampoo to soothing body scrubs and bath bombs, each recipe includes clear instructions, suitability for different skin or hair types, application techniques and storage tips.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAided with beautiful illustrations and photographs throughout, this book also features a useful directory on the most common natural ingredients and the issues they are used to address. A comprehensive introduction outlines the art of making your own skincare, as well as information on the rhythms and cycles of the skin, how the menstrual cycle affects the skin, and how to safely use products when dealing with skin sensitivity and allergies.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDiscover the power of natural ingredients, practice self-care and have fun along the way with this empowering guide.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57503555813749,"sku":"9781399424196","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781399424196.jpg?v=1786867260"},{"product_id":"concise-pond-dipping-guide","title":"Concise Pond Dipping Guide","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThis practical pocket guide covers 180 species you could  see while pond dipping in and around freshwater habitats in the British Isles and Europe.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach species account includes accurate colour artworks and concise descriptions detailing size, appearance and distribution, helping you to find and identify common species in your garden or while out and about, including plants, insects, amphibians, birds, fish and more. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTiffany Francis-Baker shares the excitement of pond dipping through her accessible, friendly text and explains how this fun activity gets you closer to nature wherever you are, broadens your knowledge of wildlife and allows you to understand freshwater habitats through the eyes of the species that live in them.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTiffany's helpful introduction includes a practical overview of pond and freshwater ecology, explaining why these can be such diverse habitats. She outlines everything you need to know to start pond dipping, including the equipment you'll need, best practices and ethical guidance, as well as useful tips and advice on where and when to look for particular species. There's also a guide to building your own pond to attract wildlife to your garden.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57503578227061,"sku":"9781399428491","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781399428491.jpg?v=1786867284"},{"product_id":"concise-rockpooling-guide","title":"Concise Rockpooling Guide","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThis practical pocket guide covers 180 coastal species you could see while rockpooling in the British Isles and Europe.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhether you have been rockpooling since childhood or want to give it a go on your next holiday, Tiffany Francis-Baker’s warm and accessible text introduces the joy of rockpooling and how it can help us see coastal habitats through the eyes of the species that live there.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach species account includes accurate colour artworks and concise descriptions detailing size, appearance, habitats and distribution, designed to make identification easy and enhance your wildlife watching during visits to the seashore.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA helpful introduction covers everything you need to know to get rockpooling, including equipment, best practices and ethical guidance, and tips on how to explore the coast safely. Tiffany also outlines the importance of seashore ecology and explains which plants and animals you can expect to see at different tide levels and why.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57593986548085,"sku":"9781399428392","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781399428392.jpg?v=1790001729"}],"url":"https:\/\/backstory.london\/collections\/author-tiffany-francis-baker.oembed","provider":"Backstory","version":"1.0","type":"link"}