You might think there’s not much to write about swimming – it’s just arm after arm and don’t forget to breathe, right?!

Well, you would be very, very wrong. Between swimming pools and lakes, beaches and oceans, a rich literature on swimming has something to please all types of swimmers.

In our guide to the best swimming books, we have recently released options exploring the science behind swimming in cold water and why it’s good for our health, as well as established textbooks on swimming technique.

There are guides to beaches and open water swimming spots, retellings of the history of swimming, and evocative descriptions of magical aquatic adventures. Finally, we even have a novel (if you need some swimming-based vacation reading!). Dive in and savor…

best swimming books

Swim Smooth by Paul Newsome and Adam Young

There aren’t many triathletes who haven’t heard of Swim Smooth – arguably the most famous swim technique coaching system in the world – and its founders, Paul Newsome and Adam Young.

Based in Australia, both have written regular articles for 220 over the past few years and there are Swim Smooth franchises offering coaching all over the world.

But if you can’t get to a coach (or can’t afford the expense), then the good news is that this handy manual lays out all the theories behind their coaching so that everyone everyone can access it.

The book begins by identifying the common “types” of swimming, which most swimmers find themselves in and which you will hopefully recognize yourself in! These range from ‘bambino’, which can be a nervous new swimmer, to ‘Arnie’, which is a more confident and powerful swimmer. It also includes categories for swimmers who overslip or hit too hard!

Once you’ve identified your stroke type, the rest of the book has great tips for improving your technique, with sample workouts and drills to focus on.

The book also has a focus on open water swimming (Paul Newsome is the winner of many iconic open water events) and will prove invaluable to any triathlete wondering how to aim, swim straight, or effectively turn around a buoy.

Chill: The Cold Water Swim Cure by Mark Harper MD PhD

Cold water swimming is what you might call a ‘moment’ right now… But why does it feel so good to us and, perhaps more importantly, what are the implications for health and fitness? ?

For triathletes this is a pertinent question, as many of us will return to the pool as soon as the temperatures drop and forget about open water until things warm up again. However, that would be a mistake, argues Dr. Mark Harper, author of Coldness.

In his work as a consultant anesthetist, Dr. Mark Harper is responsible for keeping patients warm during surgery. He is also an avid outdoor swimmer, and the combination of these two passions led to this remarkable study on the healing properties of cold water.

Here he provides evidence that cold water can positively influence our health physiologically and psychologically. In addition to theory, the book provides practical advice and inspiring case studies that any swimmer will find fascinating.

Swimming Wild and Free by Simon Griffiths

Outdoor swimming comes with many questions. What are you wearing? Where to swim safely? How can you improve your technique?

In this user-friendly and easy-to-digest book, the founder of outdoor swimmer magazine, Simon Griffiths, covers all of this and more.

Nicely balanced between photos and information, we like this manual because it provides a knowledgeable but not intimidating point of reference for new outdoor swimmers and open water athletes.

Winter Swimming by Dr Susanna Søberg

Originally published in Denmark in 2019, this fantastic and informative hardcover text by Dr Susanna Søberg has recently (2022) been translated into English for the UK market.

Although the Danish scientist Søberg may be lucky enough to swim in a country where swimming and sauna culture is widespread, this book is still extremely relevant to us in Britain.

This step-by-step guide walks the reader through the “cold shock response” and what happens to our bodies when we step into cold water. He explains how our hormones, circulation, heart and lungs respond and how activating brown fat can benefit multiple health issues.

Rather than being a dry read, however, winter swimming is packed with friendly tips and advice to inspire even the most reluctant cold water enthusiast!

Wild Swimming by Daniel Start

The author of many “wild” books now, the Wild swimming Daniel Start’s book first published in 2013 is still a faithful companion in our van glove compartment.

Perfect for swimmers who like to take a dip or swim on a road trip, it details 300 hidden dives in Britain’s rivers, lakes and waterfalls.

The book is divided into regions and for each swimming spot you get maps, as well as practical advice on accessing the water, where to park and what kind of swimming to expect.

Whether you want a secluded swim or the thrill of a rushing waterfall, this book is the place to find them.

The Lido Guide by Emma Pusill and Janet Wilkinson

Where Wild swimming Looking for wild outdoor spots, The Lido Guide is more concerned with finding you outdoor pools to enjoy.

There’s also a surprising number, with 130 from the UK and the Channel Islands. This book was a true labor of love for the authors, who traveled across the country to create this resource.

As well as telling you a little about the history of each lido, it also details useful information such as opening hours, refreshments, accessibility and whether the lido is heated or not.

Open Water by Mikael Rosen

Here has 220 Triathlonwe first met and interviewed Swedish swimming coach Mikael Rosén at the ÖtillÖ World Championships in the Swedish archipelago, where he competed and advised athletes on swimming technique.

The absolute walking encyclopedia of open water knowledge and head coach of the Swedish open water team, Rosén is well known on Instagram.

Now, all of that knowledge has been compiled into a stunning hardcover book that details the history and technique of swimming and is packed with history, science, and anecdotes.

The Outdoor Swimmers Handbook by Kate Rew

Kate Rew is the founder of the Outdoor Swimming Society. As you’d expect, she knows a thing or two about outdoor swimming.

This beautifully illustrated hardcover book takes the reader on an adventure through the lakes, rivers, seas and estuaries of the UK and, along the way, details the nature you might find as well as practical advice on accessing water, understand how it behaves and stay safe.

The Winter Swimming and Night Swimming chapters add tips for those who want to take their outdoor swimming a step further.

Why We Swim by Bonnie Tsui

Given that we are land-dwelling, standing and walking creatures, it can sometimes seem odd that humans are so drawn to water. If that’s a question you’d like answered, then Bonnie Tsui’s riveting tale of what makes us want to swim is for you.

Covering everything from evolution to open water competition, this book draws on swimming stories and history from around the world to provide you with a wealth of interesting facts and insights into our aquatic obsession.

The Lido by Libby Page

This guide is made up entirely of factual books…down to our final pick. The Lido offers a “lighter” read, but filled with references to swimming and the history of our beaches, which will make it an enjoyable read for most outdoor swimmers.

Detailing the fictional story of a lido threatened with closure and the past and present swimmers who frequent it, it reads like a love letter to our history of outdoor swimming. One for the (real) swimming pool on vacation, or by the fireplace in winter!

There’s nothing like it vacations! The reunion with loved ones, the spirit of generosity (and a bit of power-taking) make the season bright. But one thing that many people are not I can’t wait to know exactly what to buy for each person on their gift list.

Confused about what to buy for the littlest members of the family who already have all the toys in the store, your glamorous aunt returning from her latest international getaway, or your history-loving best friend? We have what you need.

These books featuring black stories by black authors run the gamut from the fashion revolution to African young adult fantasy, from fables about great dreams to retrospectives about great lives. Take a look at the ten novels, coffee table books, autobiographies, essay collections and children’s books that are sure to put a smile on your loved ones.

01

Repairs: Style + Soul

by James R. Sanders

For family fashion enthusiasts

In this unique and vibrant coffee table book, fashion activist James R. Sanders uses style and mages shot by black photographers, featuring black models, styled by a team of black hairstylists and makeup artists, to tell relevant stories about culture, race, relationships, spirituality and the unabashed history of all of us.

Available at AMAZON

02

Scenes from my life: a memoir

by Michael K. Williams

For fans of an illustrious lost life

At the time of his untimely passing, the celebrated actor had nearly finished writing his life story – an in-depth memoir chronicling his upbringing in East Flatbush, his career as a dancer and acting in some of America’s most pivotal performances. black men on TV, to his ongoing battles with drug addiction. Told in his own words, Williams details an impactful life and bright light sadly extinguished far too soon.

Available at AMAZON

03

Life I Swear: Intimate Stories of Black Women on Identity, Healing, and Self-Confidence

by Chloé Dulce Louvouezo

For the personal care lover in your life

Inspired by the podcast Life, I swear, this collection of essays by prominent black women dives deep into intensely personal topics. Sharing stories of triumph over tribulation as mothers, sisters, daughters and lovers, these women offer an honest view of the healing process and the beauty of self-love, expressed through poignant prose and beautiful photography. .

Available at AMAZON

04

Ghetto Gastro Presents: Black Power Kitchen

by Jon Gray, Pierre Serrao, Lester Walker

For the foodies in the family

Culinary artists from the Bronx join forces for this collection of 75 mostly plant-based recipes, blended with immersive storytelling from diverse stories and stunning photography, to open the floor to great conversations about race, food, culture and the power of clean eating.

Available at AMAZON

05

The World Record Book of Racist Stories

by Amber Ruffin and Lacey Lamar

For the comedy lover in your life

A sequel to the sister duo’s 2021 comedy novel You won’t believe what happened to Laceythis eye-opening and hilarious account of various microaggressions, profiling incidents, and outright racist encounters the entire Ruffin family experienced while living in Nebraska.

Available at AMAZON

06

Vintage Noir Glamor (Special Edition 2-Book Set)

by Nichelle Gainer

For the glamorous girl or guy in your life

A duo of silk-covered special editions from both years 2014 Vintage Black Glamor and 2016 Vintage Black Glamour: The gentlemen’s quartersPresented in a beautiful gold-leafed black case, this collection of rare photographs of 20th-century black actors, models, writers and artists sees our Old Hollywood icons presented in all their glamorous glory. From well-known names like Dorothy Dandridge and Sidney Poitier to lesser-recognized pioneers like Margot Webb and Calvin Lockhart, these coffee table books are the perfect addition to any collector’s home.

Available at Rocket 88 Pounds

07

Don’t forget to dream, Ebere

by Cynthia Erivo

For the littlest book lover on your list

Ebere’s mother reminds her to dream every night by putting her to bed. And she dreams… big, bright, bold, imaginative dreams that send her flying across the universe. Encouraged by her mother to develop her imagination, the main character in Cynthia Erivo’s first picture book reminds readers of all ages how far you can go when you dare to dream big.

Available at AMAZON

08

beasts of ruin

by Ayana Gray

For the young fantasy fan

The sequel to Ayana Gray’s 2021 magical fantasy novel based on various African mythologies beasts of prey (part 2 of the trilogy) finds our heroine Koffi trapped in a fantasy realm encapsulated in mist. As she strives to uncover her secrets and the extents of her own magic, our hero Ekon fights his way through the realms to join and fight alongside her to defeat the god of death once and for all.

Available at AMAZON

09

A visible man

by Edward Enninful

For the style lover in your life

Edward Enninful paved the way for representation in fashion, first as the youngest fashion director of an international publication (iD Magazine) and later as the first black editor of British vogue. These detailed memoirs delve into his upbringing in Ghana, his relocation to the UK and his journey through one of the world’s most glamorous and exclusive industries, discovering his passions, true self and freedom along the way.

Available at AMAZON

010

A Time Before Crack: Photographs from the 1980s

by Jamel Shabazz

For the photography lover you love

Hip-hop photojournalist Jamel Shabazz presents never-before-seen photos from his personal archive, spanning the mid-1970s to the early 1980s, creating a visual diary of the swag, beauty and simplicity of everyday black life on the streets of New York before narcotics arrived and changed community dynamics for decades to come.

Available at AMAZON

Here are my ten reading recommendations, from Augustine’s “Confessions” to Shakespeare’s Sonnets, including Eliot’s “Four Quartets”.

1. The Bible. This is one of the first books I read (not cover to cover, at first, of course), and the first book I memorized portions of as a child. I can’t imagine trying to think or understand the human condition without her. Some specific books in the Good Book that are worth noting: Genesis and Exodus, the Psalms and the Book of Wisdom, the Gospel of John and the Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Romans.

2. confession, by Saint Augustine of Hippo. I’ve read it many times now, and I’m still amazed by the depth of Augustin’s thought and emotion, and the clarity and depth of his expression.

3. Summa theologica, by Saint Thomas Aquinas. It would be a mistake to assume that this seminal work of theology/philosophy is dry or merely didactic, for careful and thoughtful reading reveals an understanding of the origin, nature and end of man that has seldom been equaled. .

4. The Sonnets, by William Shakespeare. I have enjoyed and enjoyed many of Shakespeare’s plays, but I am drawn again and again to the sonnets, which not only express the depths of human love, but what it means to be human in a simple and modest way.

5. David Copperfield Where Oliver Twist, by Charles Dickens. I first read them as a young boy and they brought to life a range of characters and aspects of humanity – the good, the bad and the ugly – that I had never seen or experienced before.

6. Four Quartets, by TS Eliot. The Wasteland has (and is getting?) more attention, but this mature post-conversion poem is, I believe, the greatest poem of the 20th century and one of the most moving depictions of life, death and spiritual awakening ever written.

seven. My name is Asher Lev, by Chaim Potok. Definitely my most personal choice, a book I first read when I was ten, and then many times after. A painful portrait of a Jewish boy and his struggles with faith, family and personal aspirations.

8. The abolition of man, by CS Lewis. My favorite book by Lewis, a short but penetrating work on the nature of man. If you want to read it in fiction form, check out Lewis’ “Space Trilogy”: Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength.

9. lost in the cosmos, by Walker Percy. A little eccentric, but more than a little brilliant, full of wit, wisdom, caustic charm and very difficult questions about what it means to be human in a post-Christian, post-modern culture.

ten. Redeemer Hominis, by Blessed John Paul II. The first encyclical of the late Holy Father (March 1979) is essential for anyone who wants to understand his thought and his Christocentric conception of humanity: “The Redeemer of man, Jesus Christ, is the center of the universe and of the story. Amen.

This essay was first published here in September 2011.

The imaginative curator applies the principle of appreciation to the discussion of culture and politics – we approach dialogue with magnanimity rather than mere civility. Will you help us remain a refreshing oasis in the increasingly contentious arena of modern discourse? Please consider donate now.

Image shown is “Interior with Young Man Reading” (1898) by Vilhelm Hammershøi, and is in the public domain, courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Image: Bob Stanley

After a three-year hiatus, Books on Tyne proudly returns to the spotlight with the 10^e episode of this beloved Newcastle-based book festival will take place from Saturday 19^e-Saturday 26^e November. The program is packed with diverse content ranging from local life, to the natural world, to current affairs and music more so much more.

Hprogram highlights include Maya Goodfellow discussesing his work, Hostile Environment, which explores the dark world of the use of immigration as a scapegoat for contemporary political struggles; notNovelist Ashley Hickson-Lovence talks to Sarah Tyson about her brilliant novelization of the life of Uriah Rennie, the Premier League’s first and only Black of referee; Stephanois musician Bob Stanley interviews award-winning historian Brian Ward about his new book on the birth of modern pop, let’s do it (all Municipal Library, Saturday 19^e). Jhere comes poetry and reading short storiess from the Red Squirrel press window, including a selection of local authors (VSity Llibrary, monday 21^st); and there’s a range of books based on the Northeast to discover when Barry Hindson, Ken Smith, Paul Ferris and Paul Brown discuss their novels (VSMunicipal Library, Tuesday 22^n/a); there’s a reading of acclaimed author Nancy Campbell’s fearless, lyrical new novel, Thunderstone (Lit & Phil, Wednesday 23^rd); Newcastle-based poet Sean O’Brien reads from his 11^e collection of poems, Embark (Lit & Phil, Thursday 24^e); documentary filmmaker Rob Kilburn talks about the weird and wonderful world of social history with his book Tyne & Weird; and On the occasion of the release of her new novel Lost And Found, author Elizabeth Garner is joined by folk duo Patterson Dipper for a special event where folk songs and stories venture into unknown lands (both Municipal Library, Saturday 26^e).

Books on Tyne takes place at various venues in Newcastle from Saturday 19^e-Saturday 26^e November.

]]> https://nyisbookcountry.com/new-books-commemorate-uttlesford-servicemen-who-died-in-world-war-ii/ Thu, 10 Nov 2022 12:02:00 +0000 https://nyisbookcountry.com/new-books-commemorate-uttlesford-servicemen-who-died-in-world-war-ii/

A new book pays tribute to 57 men from Uttlesford who died on active service during the Second World War.

Safran Walden remembers records details of the city’s soldiers, airmen and sailors who gave their lives between 1939 and 1945.

Author Malcolm White said: “Bob Pike has written an excellent book about the victims of the First World War, The winning heroes.

“However, I have always been aware, on every Remembrance Day, that as the years pass and we all say ‘We will remember them’, that in fact very few people remember the one of Saffron Walden’s braves killed in World War II.

“It is for this reason, and to show the hardship, hardship, bravery and courage that these people had to endure, that I have decided to research and record these details with the aim of ensuring that these soldiers are more than just names on a Memorial.

“I hope the book also shows how the people of Saffron Walden were involved all over the world and in almost every major operation throughout the war.”

The £10 book is available at the Saffron Walden Tourist Information Centre, and Malcolm will sign copies there on Saturday 12 November from 9.30am to 1pm.

He was Clerk of the City Council from 1976 to 2010 and has written a number of books and magazine articles on the history of Saffron Walden.

Hodder & Stoughton, £16.99

The Prisoner by BA Paris