A question of authenticity. Who is the author? Is it Chris Packham or is it Rob Hume?

                                                     

"Join Chris Packham as he shares his knack of spotting, identifying, watching and enjoying birdlife. 

"His insight and curiosity will enrich your time in nature and open your eyes and ears to the captivating world of birds . . . "

That is what it says on the back cover of the latest book from publishing house DK - formerly known as Dorling Kindersley.

The celebrity naturalist gives his name to the title, and his photograph is on the front cover. 

But did he actually write the book?

Apart from the introduction and a few quotes sprinkled about the narrative, possibly not.

Step forward, Rob Hume whose long list of books includes  Birdwatching - A Complete Guide to Observing British and European Birdlife and the very similar Birdwatching for Beginners - Everything You Need to Know.

Is he the real author?

In fact, this latest 'Chris Packham' title reads suspiciously like a rehash and update of the two self-same books, first published, also by DK, back in 2003.

                                     

In fairness, whoever the author might be, this latest offering - due out tomorrow, March 7- has much to commend it.

The illustrations (by Phil Gamble, Ali Scriven and others) are vibrant and the content, though sometimes patronising in tone, is informative

There are sections on on the extensive range of bird habitats - from  garden to urban, from lakes and reservoirs to heath and scrubland - as well as on nestboxes, bird-gardening and what to wear.

The book also points a way to choosing the most suitable optical equipment such as binoculars, scopes and cameras.

There are even a few lines on 'etiquette' in bird hides.

Suggests the author (whoever he might be): "If you see something interesting through your lens, offer to share your equipment, so others can see it too.

"Make sure that everyone gets at least a quick book in case the bird flies away."

But back to the introduction, definitely  written by Chris Packham.

Says he: "You don't need posh binoculars and you don't need to live on a nature reserve.

"You don't have to be an expert. No ticket required, no queue and no qualifications needed.

"A life in the presence of birds offers a whole world of simple joy."

Chris Packham's Birdwatching Guide is published in hardback at £12.99. 

The Wryneck says: Though none of it is startlingly original, there is plenty of common sense content in this book. But what is slightly disquieting is the representation that Chris Packham is the author when this might not be the case. Anyone buying the book in the expectation that it will contain fresh insights from the popular TV naturalist could have good reason to feel duped. Some clarification, perhaps from the broadcaster, might not come amiss.