Discovering the Unseen: A Review of "The Book of Trespass" by Nick Hayes

Book Suggestion by Pedro Pedrosa

When was the last time you ventured off the beaten path? In Nick Hayes' "The Book of Trespass," we are invited to join the author on a thought-provoking and daring journey through the hidden realms of England's countryside, challenging the concept of private land ownership and our right to roam.

Hayes, an illustrator and writer, uses his artistic flair and engaging storytelling to paint a vivid picture of a world hidden behind walls and fences. His work delves into the history of land ownership in England, tracing its roots back to the Norman conquest and the subsequent enclosure movement that stripped ordinary people of their rights to access common land.

Throughout the book, Hayes weaves in personal anecdotes of his acts of trespass. As he ventures into forbidden territories, he challenges the reader to question their understanding of the boundaries that divide us. These stories are compelling and eye-opening, shedding light on the rich biodiversity that thrives in the hidden corners of the countryside and the fascinating histories behind the properties that are off-limits to the public.

One of the most striking aspects of "The Book of Trespass" is its visual presentation. Hayes, an accomplished illustrator, accompanies each chapter with intricate and evocative illustrations that capture the essence of his journey. His drawings serve as a powerful reminder of the beauty and diversity of the English landscape and how much of it remains unseen and unexplored by the general public.

But the book is not just a collection of adventures and stunning illustrations; it is also a call to action. Hayes encourages his readers to reclaim their rights to roam, asserting that trespassing is a form of civil disobedience against an unjust system that has denied people access to their shared heritage for centuries.

"The Book of Trespass" is an enlightening and inspiring work that will change the way you view the landscape around you. Hayes' storytelling will transport you into the hidden realms of England's countryside, challenging you to question the boundaries that keep us apart and inspiring you to explore the world with a newfound sense of curiosity and wonder.

So, the next time you find yourself staring at a "No Trespassing" sign, remember Nick Hayes' daring adventures and take a moment to consider what lies beyond the barriers that keep us confined to the well-trodden path.

You can find the book here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-book-of-trespass-crossing-the-lines-that-divide-us-nick-hayes/1844434?ean=9781526604729

Or

go even deeper in this podcast with the author: https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/resource/the-book-of-trespass-by-nick-hayes/