Summary
I am an author and book designer with a special interest in ancient, historic trees.
Between 2007 and 2011, I travelled the island of Britain, photographing and collecting stories of ancient trees, of which there are many.
The results were published in 'Britain's Tree Story', a hardback book for National Trust.
For the past five years I have travelled extensively seeking the world's ancient trees, and discovered 100 magnificent trees in 40 countries, photographed them and gathered archive materials. Rich in history, the subjects - many over 1,000 years old - always have a story to tell.
I am now collating the material into a lavishly illustrated 256 page hardback book; 'World Tree Story - history & legend of the world's ancient trees'.
You can see example cover and page spreads on the 'gallery' page.
What We Need
Having written the text, taken high-quality photographs, collected archive photos and engravings, I now need to produce the book.
Your pledge will help fund the following:
• Finishing the text, book design and artwork.
• A professional book editor to check the work, correct errors, and keep standards high.
• Licensing of additional images
• ISBN book numbering and registration.
• Colour printers proofs.
• Print the books (professionally printed on FSC paper sourced from sustainable forests.)
• Promotional materials and review copies.
What You Get
In return, your pledge will ensure you are among the first to receive a signed copy of this new and fascinating book (or whatever goods you have pledged for), with your name printed on a special contributors page as a thank you, delivered around October 2015, in time for Christmas. Safe in the knowledge that you have helped bring an independent and worthwhile project to life.
The Impact
When viewed in a single volume, this stunning collection of trees, along with their history, legend and mythology, presents an extraordinary record of the rich variety of ancient trees worldwide, whilst also telling a human story. A celebration of our ancient trees through words and pictures, the book ultimately calls for their preservation and conservation.
Risks & Challenges
• As an author, I was lucky to have success with my previous book; Britain's Tree story, which stands me in good stead for the follow up.
• I need to achieve a printers deadline and finish the book by July.
• As an experienced book designer, I understand the production pitfalls and challenges involved in producing a book.
• I have national distribution lined up to make the book available through all the usual outlets.
This book will happen. Any additional funds raised will help increase the print run.
Other Ways You Can Help
If you can't contribute financially, please share my project via social media or e-mail, using the Indiegogo link, as spreading the news far and wide will be key for making World Tree Story a reality.
