In this book I write about my experiences handling various dogs engaged in their traditional tasks; from hill-farm collies to duck-hunting Poodles. These adventures took me to the Jordanian desert, where I shared the saddle of my camel with a Saluki and to the green hills of Wales, where I worked a Corgi with cattle. I mushed Huskies in Alaska and, in England, I drove a carriage with a Dalmatian following on behind; I flew falcons with Spaniels and I netted partridges with Setters. Each encounter not only highlighted the bond between humans and dogs, it also framed that connection in its historical context.

The text is supported by over 250 stunning colour photographs of dogs in action, illustrating the roles of dogs through many cultures and time periods. I explore the development of different types of dog, according to their original function. For those who care about the future of our dogs, it is not a bad idea to have a broader understanding of their past. Mostly though, this is an adventure book – a historical tour in the company of dogs.

War Bows

Archery was my first, and remains my most enduring, passion. I find the history of bows and the technology of bows, in all their different cultural manifestations, endlessly fascinating.

This lavishly illustrated hardback volume comprises four major sections: The Longbow, The Crossbow, The Composite Bow and The Japanese Bow. Each section covers the development, use and effectiveness of each.

Swords and Swordsmen

Swords and Swordsmen chronicles the major developments in the sword’s design, manufacturing processes and methods of use from Ancient Egypt to the American Civil War. In this book, I take the history of the sword and wield it to tell stories, populated with ferocious and fascinating characters. Along the way, trace the history of the sword in war and the history of the private duel.