Discover the Mystical Bond Between Humans and Trees in Wyl Menmuir’s Latest Book “The Heart of the Woods”

In an age where digital distractions are rife, Wyl Menmuir’s latest masterpiece, The Heart of the Woods, offers a soothing escape into the realms of nature—specifically, the deep, verdant woods of Britain and Ireland.

This collection of essays explores the profound and multifaceted relationships humans share with trees and woodlands, a theme that resonates deeply with those of us surrounded by Cornwall’s lush landscapes.

About the Author

Wyl, a resident of Cornwall and a figure well-known in its literary circles, is not just a novelist but a seasoned literary consultant and former journalist. His works have been acknowledged with nominations and awards, notably The Many which was shortlisted for the Man-Booker Prize and The Draw of the Sea which won the Roger Deakin Award. Wyl’s connections to Cornwall are deep, both personally and professionally, which enriches his new book with a local perspective, especially through chapters that involve Cornwall directly like Willow Weaver and Boat Builder.

Journey Through the Woods

The Heart of the Woods is Wyl’s ode to the silent yet expressive world of trees. Priced at £16.99 and spanning 304 pages, the hardback is set to release on 6th June 2024. It promises to immerse readers in the stories of those who plant trees, the ecologists who devote their lives to studying them, and the craftsmen who turn wood into art.

From the Atlantic rainforests to the sacred Shinto shrines of Japan, Wyl navigates through diverse landscapes, introducing us to ship-builders, coppicers, and those who find solace and spiritual renewal among the trees. His narrative delves into how these mighty yet silent beings have shaped human culture, tools, and traditions throughout the ages.

Cornwall’s Special Chapters

Significant to the local readers are chapters like Willow Weaver, which talks about the eco-conscious tradition of woodland burials and crafting willow coffins in Cornwall. Another chapter, Boat Builder, narrates the skill and dedication behind building a Scillonian pilot cutter, a vessel linked deeply with Cornwall’s maritime heritage.

Legacy and Connection

Wyl not only writes about the practical aspects of forestry and woodland crafts but also pens a thoughtful contemplation on the legacies that trees establish—between parents and children, and within communities. His essays underscore the trees’ roles not just as background players in human history, but as pivotal elements that carry forward legacies.

Critical Acclaim

Guy Shrubsole, author of The Lost Rainforests of Britain and Who Owns England?, praises Wyl’s work, highlighting the warm, insightful narratives that skillfully intertwine human and arboreal lives. Guy compares Wyl’s understanding and appreciation of woodlands to that of Oliver Rackham, a high commendation in the field of environmental writing.

For the Love of Trees

The Heart of the Woods is more than just a book; it’s a journey that rekindles our intrinsic connection to forests. It appeals not only to those who practice woodland crafts but also to anyone who finds themselves lost in the serene, sylvan escapes that only woodlands can offer.

This collection by Wyl is a compelling invitation to rediscover the enchanting and indispensable role of trees in our lives and cultures. Set to adorn bookshelves and perhaps alter perceptions, Wyl’s new book is a testament to the timeless bond between humans and trees—a must-read for environmental enthusiasts, history buffs, and lovers of fine prose alike. Get ready to lose yourself in the woods with Wyl Menmuir and come out the other side, enriched and inspired.