Random House Struik has a fabulous selection of must-read and must-have books for the entire family this festive season. Here’s a peak at a few of our favourites:
Kirstenbosch: the most beautiful garden in Africa
In 2013 Kirstenbosch celebrates its 100th anniversary.This centenary publication tells the story of its establishment, its setbacks and triumphs, its benefactors and heroes. It outlines the Garden’s scientific eminence – as the repository of knowledge on our prized flora – and details the many attractions that make it a favourite destination for Capetonians and visitors alike.
With finely crafted text by acclaimed ecologist Brian Huntley, and lavishly illustrated with photographs and artworks that tell the history and reflect the beauty of the Garden, this will be a sought-after volume – a quality memento for visitors to Kirstenbosch and a keepsake for the many thousands of locals who flock there annually.
Beautifully presented in a colourful dust jacket, this book will be a tasteful, all-occasions gift, and one to cherish.
Price: R300
Mike Lundy’s best walks in the Cape Peninsula
‘Mike Lundy’s Best Walks in the Cape Peninsula’ is the ultimate authority on the best and quickest escape from the rat race – even if only for a day.
A bestseller for 21 years, Mike Lundy’s Best Walks in the Cape Peninsula remains one of the most popular books on hiking in Cape Town. Each of the 30 day walks in this classic collection has been carefully chosen because of a particular point of interest, be it a waterfall, grotto, yellowwood grove, shipwreck or spectacular viewpoint. The routes range from challenging climbs to the top of Table Mountain to leisurely strolls among the fynbos or along city beaches, and will appeal to hikers of all levels of experience – whether aspiring ramblers or diehard adventurers.
A simple grading system, information on the average hiking time, notes on the availability of water and practical advice on mountain safety and weather conditions ensure that the hiker is given a clear idea of what to expect. Every walk is accompanied by an accurate map and an easy-to-follow route description, spiced with historical snippets and nature notes.
For this eighth edition, all route descriptions and maps have been brought up to date, the design and typography have been given a fresh, modern look and photographs and illustrations add lively interest. In addition, GPS coordinates for all tracks can be downloaded from www.gpstravelmaps.com/bestwalks.php
With so many spectacular walks to choose from in the Cape Peninsula, Mike Lundy’s Best Walks in the Cape Peninsula is the ultimate authority on the best and quickest escape from the rat race – even if only for a day.
Price: R130
Sky Guide Africa South 2013
Prepared by the Astronomical Society of Southern Africa for use by novice, amateur and professional astronomers, Sky Guide Africa South 2013 is a practical resource, offering information for the whole year on the movement of the planets, upcoming eclipses, the dates of meteor showers, as well as star charts to aid in identifying stars and constellations in the southern African night skies.
The book also presents a wealth of information in a clear and accessible way about the Sun, Moon, planets, comets, meteors and bright stars, with many supporting diagrams, charts, illustrations and images.
An annual publication, Sky Guide Africa South is an invaluable resource for anyone with an interest in the night skies of southern Africa.
Price: R95
Easy party treats for children
As the title suggests, Easy Party Treats for Children is aimed at anyone who wants to give their child a perfect party, without blowing the budget or having to spend hours in the kitchen.
Using relatively few, readily available, biscuits, sweets and decorations, it is possible to create a variety of treats for boys’ and girls’ parties. Party themes include Vehicles, Planes and Trains, Aliens and Creepy Crawlies, and Princesses and Magic Forests.
Learn how to make cone figures, and how to turn marshmallows, ice cream cones, Rice Krispies, marie biscuits, and a variety of small sweets into a cornucopia of figures, animals and shapes that will delight and intrigue small party-goers.
Beautiful photography helps to boost the imagination and, thanks to the helpful instructions and useful tips, you will soon be creating your own party treats.
Price: R180
Find 50 at the seashore
This checklist of 50 fascinating seashore plants and animals will liven up any trip to the beach or aquarium.
Children will have great fun ticking off these creatures as they discover them, reading about each one and studying the beautiful, full-colour illustrations.
The illustrations are chiefly by Judy Maré, with additional contributions by Sally MacLarty and Jennifer Schaum.
Price: R35
For more information on these and other books published by Random House Struik, visit www.randomstruik.co.za or pop in to your favourite reputable bookstore.