The Wainwright Prize 2025 has awarded its top honor to The Book of Birds, a powerful collaboration between author Robert Macfarlane and artist Jackie Morris. This illustrated guide highlights 49 threatened British bird species, blending poetry and art to raise awareness about avian decline. The win underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts.
About the Wainwright Prize and This Year's Winner
The Wainwright Prize celebrates outstanding nature and travel writing in the UK. This year, The Book of Birds stood out for its innovative approach, combining Macfarlane's evocative text with Morris's stunning artwork. It's a twist on classic field guides, as Patrick Barkham noted in a Guardian interview with the creators. The book covers species from the avocet to the yellowhammer, many of which are in sharp decline.
Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.
Why The Book of Birds Matters
Bird populations are plummeting globally. Macfarlane points out that there are three billion fewer birds in North America than 50 years ago, and 600 million fewer in Europe. "Our skies are thinner, our springs quieter. This is a savage loss," he said. The book aims to pull birds back into focus and splendour, warning against their vanishing. It's not just a guide; it's a call to action.
Key Takeaways from the Wainwright Prize Win
- The Book of Birds won the Wainwright Prize for writing on global conservation.
- It features 49 threatened British bird species, with text by Macfarlane and art by Morris.
- The authors previously collaborated on The Lost Words, a bestselling response to nature words being removed from the Oxford Junior Dictionary.
- Macfarlane won the Wainwright Prize in 2019 for Underland.
- The children's book of the year award went to Otherlands by Thomas Halliday, illustrated by Gavin Scott.
Comparing the Wainwright Prize Winners
Here's how this year's winners compare in terms of theme and impact:
| Award Category | Book Title | Author(s) | Theme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Book of the Year | The Book of Birds | Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris | Conservation of threatened British birds |
| Children's Book of the Year | Otherlands: An Illustrated Journey Through Earth's Lost Worlds | Thomas Halliday, illustrated by Gavin Scott | Exploration of prehistoric ecosystems |
The Impact of The Book of Birds
Beyond the award, The Book of Birds serves as a vital tool for conservation. By showcasing these 49 species, it puts a spotlight on the fragility of our ecosystems. The collaboration between Macfarlane and Morris is a testament to the power of art and science combined. Their previous work, The Lost Words, was shortlisted for the Wainwright Prize in 2018 and became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring campaigns to reconnect children with nature.
FAQ
What is the Wainwright Prize?
The Wainwright Prize is a UK literary award for nature and travel writing, celebrating books that inspire connection with the natural world.
Who are Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris?
Robert Macfarlane is a renowned author known for his nature writing, and Jackie Morris is an acclaimed illustrator. Together, they created The Lost Words and now The Book of Birds.
Why is The Book of Birds important?
It highlights 49 threatened British bird species, raising awareness about avian decline and inspiring conservation efforts through art and words.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
