The Book of Tides

I enjoyed reading this book, it’s not huge, but there is enough to satisfy curiosity as it is packed with so much information. What I really liked is: it doesn’t wander off into obscure jargon, it stays focused and it never patronises; it keeps things simple but never boring. I will certainly reread it, because when you can’t be with the sea, it’s the next best thing.

Got this wanting to understand a bit more about the coastal waters around the UK. I was positively surprised by the aesthetic and writing style of the book which made the experience all the more pleasant.Different coastal characteristics are broken down in each chapter, providing a pragmatic explanation behind the science of that factor, for example Chapter 1 describes tides around the coast. The author will then go on to describe his experience whilst visiting the location and share tips and pointers for a safe experience. I really liked the visual depictions supporting each chapter and the iconic framework to aid the reader in visualising the explanation. So, a non-fiction book that actually imparts information in a sort of fiction kind of way!I especially liked the bore wave section, so much so that it has renewed my interest in conducting some sea kayaking in the near future!

I have lived by the sea for most of my adult life and this book simply and beautifully explains things I have always wondered; what makes waves happen, how to spot a rip current and why tidal bores flow up some rivers. It's a practical book, beautifully explained with lots of illustrations on every page. Highly recommended.

More of graphic design and illustration students’ book than an interesting book of the sea and tides. If you like quirky diagrams and illustrative explanations then this book is for you. If you like deadliest catch or surfing and wonder how these people survive in these waters then don’t bother. In honesty though it’s somewhere for the person inbetween, just not me which is why I returned it.

I first saw this book in a shop and was hesitant to buy it but was drawn in by the sharp illustrations and easy reading. Turns out, it’s full of amazing facts and information for anyone interested in our coastal areas and for the more serious sports enthusiasts- I now have an improved knowledge of tide/wave/moon/weather phases which will improve my surfing😄So good, I bought another copy on line for a friend!