Author
Edmund Selous
1857-1934
Edmund Selous (1857-1934) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Edmund Selous
The romance of insect life : $b Interesting descriptions of the strange and curious in the insect world
"The Romance of Insect Life" by Edmund Selous is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the fascinating and complex world of insects, providing rich descriptions of their behaviors, life cycles, and social structures. The book aims to captivate readers with intriguing details about various insect species and their relationships with one another and their environments. The opening of "The Romance of Insect Life" sets the stage for a detailed exploration of insects, starting with a discussion on neuropterous insects, particularly the fascinating behaviors of white ants. It highlights their complex social structures, including the roles of kings, queens, and workers within their colonies. Selous introduces themes of natural systems and interdependence among insects, promising an engaging journey into their unique ways of life, including warfare tactics, communication methods, and dietary habits, while emphasizing the author's intention to entertain rather than to classify scientifically.
The romance of the animal world : $b Interesting descriptions of the strange & curious in natural history
"The Romance of the Animal World: Interesting Descriptions of the Strange & Curious in Natural History" by Edmund Selous is a scientific exploration of the remarkable behaviors and interactions within the animal kingdom, written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the intricate relationships between various species, highlighting examples of intelligence, partnership, and survival tactics in wildlife. Through engaging narratives, the book aims to reveal the fascinating complexities of animal life, providing insight into both common and extraordinary natural phenomena. At the start of the book, Selous introduces the concept of animal "romance," emphasizing the need for intelligence in animals to engage in complex behaviors. He begins with a vivid observation of microscopic combat among simple organisms, illustrating early signs of conscious exertion and interaction. Transitioning to larger examples, he discusses the fascinating relationships between hermit crabs and sea anemones, and the clever strategies of crabs in their quest for food. These anecdotes are not only informative but also reflect a deep appreciation for the wonders of natural history, setting the stage for a journey through rich and diverse animal behaviors.
The Bird Watcher in the Shetlands, with Some Notes on Seals—and Digressions
"The Bird Watcher in the Shetlands, with Some Notes on Seals—and Digressions" by Edmund Selous is a naturalist's account written in the early 20th century. This work blends travel writing and ornithology, reflecting on the author's observations during visits to the Shetland Islands. The narrative captures the richness of bird life, particularly the behaviors of terns and gulls, interspersed with reflections on solitude and the beauty of nature. The opening of the book establishes a vivid scene of the island, brimming with life yet imbued with a sense of solitude. Selous describes a landscape filled with the calls of terns, contrasting the lively atmosphere of the birds with his own feelings of isolation. He poignantly reflects on the interactions between the various bird species, revealing their behaviors and the complexities of their relationships, such as the way young terns respond to the presence of their parents. His observations extend beyond birds to include seals, as he sets the tone for a narrative rich in natural detail and philosophical digression.
Bird Life Glimpses
"Bird Life Glimpses" by Edmund Selous is a collection of observational essays written in the early 20th century. This work captures the author's reflections on birdlife during his time living in Icklingham, Suffolk, focusing primarily on the behaviors and interactions of various bird species he encounters. The text serves to illuminate the charm and intricacies of birdwatching, offering insights into the naturalist's experience and understanding of avian life. The opening of the work introduces Icklingham and its unique landscape, characterized by sandy stretches and moorlands, setting the scene for Selous’s observations. He reflects on his experiences as a field naturalist, emphasizing the challenges of studying birds and the often mundane aspects of their lives that go unnoticed. The vivid descriptions of bird behaviors—such as the evening roosting of wood-pigeons or the cheerful notes of blackbirds—provide readers with a sense of the tranquility and wonder of nature while underlining the author’s deep appreciation for the subtle dynamics of bird life. His engaging style invites readers into his world, conveying not just information, but also a profound love for the subject matter.
Bird Watching
"Bird Watching" by Edmund Selous is a nature observation book written in the early 20th century. It focuses on the detailed observations of various bird species and their behaviors, primarily narrated from the author's perspective. This book will appeal to readers interested in ornithology, nature writing, or anyone who enjoys immersing themselves in the world of wildlife. The opening of "Bird Watching" sets the stage for the author's personal experiences with birdwatching, emphasizing a more intimate and casual exploration rather than formal scientific studies. Selous introduces readers to the great plover, or stone-curlew, describing its physical appearance and habits with great detail. He paints vivid scenes of the bird sitting, preening, and engaging in lively acts, reflecting on the social dynamics among the birds and their behaviors during different times of the day. Through his observations, the author seeks to convey both factual details and the emotions stirred by witnessing these creatures in their natural habitat, inviting readers to join him in discovering the joys of birdwatching.
Tommy Smith's Animals
"Tommy Smith's Animals" by Edmund Selous is a children’s storybook written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows a young boy, Tommy Smith, who initially exhibits cruel behavior toward animals, but through various encounters with talking creatures, he learns valuable lessons about kindness and respect for nature. Each chapter introduces different animals, including a hare, a frog, and a snake, providing them with distinct personalities and wisdom as they interact with Tommy. The opening of the book introduces Tommy as a boy who cruelly mistreats animals without realizing the harm he causes. The animals, tired of his behavior, gather for a meeting led by a wise owl to discuss how to handle Tommy's mistreatment. Instead of punishing him, they decide to teach him about their abilities and the importance of respecting all living creatures. The meeting establishes the central theme of the book: educating children on animal welfare and empathy. Tommy's journey of transformation begins as he is exposed to the perspectives of the animals he once harmed, setting the stage for the profound lessons that will unfold throughout the story.
Beautiful Birds
"Beautiful Birds" by Edmund Selous is a charming nature book written in the early 20th century. The book explores the stunning beauty of various bird species, focusing particularly on Birds of Paradise and their adaptations. It emphasizes not only their physical beauty but also the ecological and ethical implications of their existence, addressing the cruel practice of hunting them for ornamentation. The opening of the book presents a vivid appreciation for the aesthetics of birds, contrasting them with butterflies while showcasing the captivating colors and characteristics of various species found in nature, such as the Kingfisher and the Thrush. Selous introduces readers to the cruel reality that the beauty of these birds has led to their systematic destruction by human hands, urging empathy and conservation. He cleverly personifies Nature and her creations, emphasizing the need to awaken a sense of compassion in humans, particularly women, who are depicted as the primary offenders in the quest for beauty derived from the dead bodies of these birds. The narrative sets a gentle yet urgent tone for the animal welfare message that follows.