SOARING LIFE OF THE LARK By John Lewis-Stempel

Skylarks are the heralds of the English countryside. Their music is the quintessential sound of spring. The spirit of pastoralism, they have inspired poets, composers and farmers alike. In the trenches of World War I they were a reminder of the chattering meadows of home. Perhaps you were up with the lark, or as happy as one. History has seen us poeticise and musicise the bird, but also capture and eat them. This book explores the breath-taking heights and struggle to survive of this iconic songbird.