James Downs Books

For readers interested in biodiversity restoration, this book introduces a movement to transform empty lots, backyards, and degraded land into mini-forests. Author Hannah Lewis argues for a grassroots "plant a million mini-forests" initiative over corporate-driven campaigns. Central to her message is the Miyawaki Method, developed by botanist Akira Miyawaki in response to Japan's post-war development. Lewis details the scientific principles behind Miyawaki-style mini-forests, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity in enhancing ecosystem productivity and resilience. She explains how native climax species replicate ancient forest compositions and highlights the numerous benefits of mini-forests, such as cooling urban heat islands, sequestering carbon, improving soil health, increasing water retention, establishing wildlife corridors, and fostering community healing. The Miyawaki Method is gaining global traction, with inspiring stories of mini-forests emerging worldwide—from Beirut to Cameroon to India. The book includes a practical field manual for designing and planting a mini-forest, focusing on selecting appropriate species and their proportions. This guide aims to motivate readers to initiate mini-forest projects in their communities, potentially leading to transformative environmental and social impacts.

Over the last 30 years, the prevalence of eating disorders has increased to become a widespread problem across the UK and worldwide. This book offers a comprehensive guide written by people with eating disorders, their families and leading researchers, clinicians and therapists, all aiming to improve understanding of practical ways of helping people with eating disorders to live and thrive in their communities. The handbook covers the important topics of understanding eating difficulties in our society’s context, including the role of social media and the fashion industry, and how health care professionals and voluntary organisations currently support those with an eating disorder. It explores the value of exercise, nutrition, and sleep, and considers support from parents and schools for children, as well as making reasonable accommodations for young people and adults in higher education and the workplace. Particular therapies for stabilisation and recovery are detailed, and a final section sets out examples of creative and arts-based approaches.

The narrative centers on a transformative friendship formed in Yosemite National Park, where the author and James bond over coffee and deep conversations spanning various topics. This connection inspires the creation of Poetic Matrix Press, which publishes a range of poetry books, including chapbooks and full-length works. The duo's collaboration leads to the production of over 80 titles over 23 years. Additionally, James initiates a series of live poetry and music events, enriching the cultural landscape of Yosemite.

The narrative follows Anton Walbrook, an actor who fled Nazi Germany in 1936 and found success in Britain. He became renowned for his roles in grand biopics, particularly those portraying Queen Victoria. The story explores his journey, the challenges he faced as an émigré, and the impact of his work on British cinema during a tumultuous historical period. Through his performances, Walbrook navigates the complexities of identity and artistry against the backdrop of a changing world.