The Otter's Tale by Simon Cooper, £16.99

THE recovery of the otter is definitely a success story for conservation of these beautiful animals; there was much delight when a female otter with her young could be seen in Kendal town centre earlier this year. Indeed, they can now be found in most suitable waterways across the county.

When Simon Cooper found that he was sharing the stream at his water mill with a family of otters he began to observe them, soon immersing himself in their daily routines. In this book (shortlisted for The Wainwright Prize) he takes us on a journey through the calendar year, learning the most intimate detail of this most beautiful of British mammals. Cooper brings these beloved animals to life revealing the previously hidden secrets of their lives in this beautifully told tale of the otter.

CAROLINE REECE

WATERSTONES KENDAL