‘A book so delightful that I must share it’ - Simon Jenkins, The Times  

‘Mabey is one of our best nature writers and he has produced a delightful book, as enlightening as it is uplifting’ - John Preston, The Sunday Telegraph  

‘A pure pleasure to read’ - Peter Levi, The Spectator 

‘Exquisite and illuminating’ - Euan Dunn, The Countryman  

From acclaimed nature writer Richard Mabey, Whistling in the Dark: In Pursuit of the Nightingale is a rich and thoughtful exploration of the natural and literary histories of the elusive nightingale. 

For thousands of years, the nightingale has been the most celebrated songbird in history. From Ovid to Shakespeare, Shelley to Keats, its exquisite song has inspired poets and playwrights, symbolising the enduring power of nature and love. But why have humans always fallen under its spell?