Christmas present suggestions

So, I know it's still a little early, but I've already been starting to think about Christmas. I always leave buying presents and writing cards until quite late on, and so get a bit stressed trying to think of things in time, so I've been trying to be organised this year ! In my searching, I thought I'd pass along a few ideas that I've had, in case it helps any of you too :) I will post links along the way, as the reviews and blurbs say it better than I could...here are 2 books and 2 CDs from my suggestions list...

1) Science on Ice by Chris Linder (book)
"Science on Ice gives the reader a glimpse into the challenges of conducting field research in the extreme and isolated environments of the Arctic and Antarctic. I came away with a new appreciation of both the risks and adventures scientists experience, the creativity and adaptability they must possess to work in difficult conditions, and most of all, the fact that they are normal human beings with a strong sense of curiosity that fuels their work." -Amy Gulick, photographer and author of Salmon in the Trees: Life in Alaska's Tongass Rain Forest"

"The result is a combination travel book and paean to the hard work and dedication that underlies our knowledge of life on earth. "Science on Ice" takes readers to the farthest reaches of our planet; science has rarely been more exciting - or inspiring."

Go and read the full blurb ! This book is going to be released in early December. For more info, see the Facebook page or the amazon UK page (where you can order it if you're in the UK). It sounds really interesting, and even better, I know one of the jounalists who helped write parts of it :)

2) Rainbows in my eyes by Jenny Rowbory (book)
"Rainbows in my eyes is a collection of poems by J. K. Rowbory.

Jenny Rowbory was born in 1986 in Ashford, Middlesex, and currently lives in Norfolk. During her first year at university in 2004, she became ill with a virus that caused severe M.E. (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: inflammation of the brain and spinal cord). M.E. affects all bodily systems, causing Jenny to be bed-bound and unable to sit up because of strain on her cardiovascular system."

I was lucky enough to get to know Jenny a little whilst she was at Bristol University in 2004. Jenny's poetry is amazing, (you can read some examples here ). I have her previous book of poems, and intend to buy this one soon. All money raised from sales goes towards Jenny's ongoing medical treatment. You can buy the book, and find more info, here.

3) Re:Creation - Steven Curtis Chapman (CD)
Steven Curtis Chapman is an awesome singer-songwriter; one of my favourites in fact. But don't just take my word for it, check out his music ! He has just released this new album...

"On Steven’s 17th album, re:creation, he serves up six new songs, including the debut hit single, “Do Everything” and breathes new life into some of his most memorable and popular songs with re-imagined approaches and all new recordings."

Often I avoid "redone versions of old songs" albums, but this album really is phenomenal. Plus, he uses both DADGAD guitar tuning and ukelele on it - honestly, what more could you want ?! :) Go and read the rest of his biog on his website and watch this video as SCC talks about the inspiration behind this album.

4) The Waterfront Project - Waterfront (CD)

Shameless plug...you may have heard that for the last couple of years I've been part of a folk band called Waterfront. Well, we have an album, and a copy could be yours !

You can order the album if you go to Glyn's website and send him an e-mail. (Bearing in mind that if you would like the CD in time for Christmas, then leave enough time to allow shipping from the US, as we've now sold out of all our UK stock.)

You can get a taste of our music on Glyn's website, as above, or on our myspace or by watching some of our videos :)