【推荐1】The Swan: A Biography by Stephen Moss, £ 12.99

Having previously charted the lives of the robin, wren and swallow, Stephen Moss turns his attention to the swan. The details of its life-cycle, its place in popular culture and its role in literature are all discussed in this beautifully illustrated (插图) guide.

A Year Unfolding by Angela Harding, £ 20

A Year Unfolding is a celebration of much-loved printmaker Angela Harding’s beautiful work and an insight into her detailed and careful printing process. In the first book only dedicated (献) to her art, Angela takes us through a year in nature, watching the seasons unfold from her studio in Rutland, and revealing the stories behind some of her most popular images.

Remembering African Wild Dogs by Wildlife Photographers United, £ 45

The latest addition to the Remembering series, this volume is filled with breathtaking images and “painted wolves”. The photographs have been donated by 80 of the world’s best wildlife photographers, and the book aims to raise awareness of the sad and difficult situation of these endangered animals.

Black Lion by Sicelo Mbatha, £ 13.99

Despite losing a family member during a terrifying meet with wildlife in his early years, Sicelo Mbatha remains drawn to nature. Here, he tells the story of how he went on to become a wilderness guide, drawing on his Zulu background to see nature in a different light.

【推荐2】Are you thinking of writing someone a letter? Call instead. It isn’t that expensive, especially when you call during the evening, night, or weekend hours. In fact, you can make a ten-minute call anywhere in the continental United States for just $2.60.

For even greater saving, always dial direct, that is, without an operator’s help. Rates (资；费) on direct calls are lower after five o’clock in the evening and lowest after eleven o’clock at night. Collect, person-to-person, and pay phone calls require the services of an operator, and they cost more than direct calls.

Need to call out of the country? Now calls to many overseas places may be dialed direct. Check your telephone direction for overseas area codes.

Next time you have good news, or you just want to stay in touch, remember, a phone call means so much more than a letter. This has been a message from Southern Bell Telephone Company.