Towers and Tectons

Above: Professor Carl Chinn with author Jill Hitchman (other major contributors to the book include Dr David Beeston, Ian Hughes and Phil Riley)
The new book with that title (in the form 'towersandtectons' on the cover, but 'tectonsandtowers' on the spine!) was launched at the Zoo this afternoon. Actually, it is two books - if you turn it over and start reading from the other end it is 'conservationandresearch' at Dudley Zoo. This is a GREAT book (IMHO). There are some absolutely superb photos, especially of animals, and the old black and white photographs which show the enormous crowds that used to visit the zoo are also interesting. In the conservation half of the book it is interesting to find out just how much work the zoo does in conserving native species.
The general style and presentation of the book seems aimed at the general public, rather than enthusiasts. However, it also seems to be a blunt report of the current state of the site, at least in terms of the text - problems are quite explicitly stated, and in some respects it reads more like an annual report or a proposal seeking funding than a book. The content on the Castle is as you might suspect from the title(s) a bit limited as far as most members of The Friends of Dudley Castle are concerned, but overall the book is certainly of interest and well worth buying.
The launch went very well and included a typically inspirational address from Professor Carl Chinn (my thanks to him for the plug for John Hemingway's latest book on Dudley!!).
With Christmas fast approaching, this book would make a good gift for yourself or friends.