This is a fabulous book which combines memoir with history and travel. It's a fascinating insight into this ancient craft in England and Scotland, and also Scandinavia, the Netherlands and Japan. 

The author left university, where he studied English, to work in publishing but found he didn't enjoy being in an office in the city, so he left - with no other job or occupation in mind. And thatching found him, he says.

There are 60,000 thatched roofs in England (though just 300 in Scotland). Currently there are enough people to carry out the repair and renewal needed for these exisiting properties, but the majority of craftsmen (there are very few women working as thatchers) are in their 50s or 60s so we need a new generation to be inspired and trained in the trade.

Tom Allan started his five year apprenticeship in his late twenties and seven years after taking it on decided to find out more about the craft. He travelled all over the country and overseas to talk to other master thatchers, and has written about the experience in this beautiful book.

He discovered what they all had in common but also explored the differences in technique, materials and terminology by region. In East Anglia, for example, thatches are repaired by building layer upon layer, whereas in Devon, where the author works, they strip off the old thatch and build afresh.

The environmental benefits of thatched roofs have been recognised in The Netherlands with new buildings having them incorporated in their designs. And in Japan they are so meticulous about the heritage of the craft that it can take many months to complete a roof, making it a very expensive but revered approach.

This is a very engaging read which is wonderfully revealing. The author hopes to broaden an understanding and appreciation of this craft and perhaps encourage the next generation to learn the skill. A brilliant book. Loved it, and learnt a lot!