Journeys to the Nearby

Inspired by the adventures of world travellers but unwilling to rack up her fossil fuel consumption, Elspeth sets out with a deep curiosity to explore the world that exists in her own garden.

Told over the course of four seasons, Journeys to the Nearby is inspired by the beauty in the small moments of discovery. After spending the winter holidays lazing comfortably with a stack of books by ambitiously adventurous travel writers, Elspeth soon realises that their derring-do and far-flung, often gas-guzzling exploits, are not her cup of tea. But impressed by their energy she resolves to abandon her recliner to set off on a year-long journey of her own.

Her tentative efforts of 'untravelling' become a voyage of discovery and rediscovery as she learns to slow down and observe. With gentle humour and a warm, intimate, and conversational style, Elspeth evokes her world as richly as any travel writer.

Accompanied by Elspeth's elegant pen-and-ink drawings, this charming book makes an ideal gift for travellers, gardeners, and those seeking solace in our overwhelming and relentlessly-fast-paced digital world.