Charlie Bingham - The Life-Affirming Magic of Birds

‘A beautifully written book that connects us to beauty and curiosity. It will fill your mind and make your heart sing like a nightingale.' – Robin Ince Whether it’s a brief encounter with a friendly robin or a curious wood pigeon perched on your windowsill, everyone has a bird story. Join nature and wildlife enthusiast Charlie Bingham as she talks us through her travels that took her the length and breadth of the UK, searching for oystercatchers on rooftops and peregrines on cathedral spires. Simply look up and become part of the awe-inspiring world that exists above us.  Broken into twelve chapters, each covering a different bird and a different lesson, discover: How engaging with nature doesn’t require expertise, special equipment or remote settings. Practical advice and accessible ways to notice and interpret the birds around you. How birdwatching helped Charlie navigate grief, mental health, ADHD, financial strain and other major life challenges. Blending Charlie’s beautiful nature writing and personal anecdotes with relatable life lessons, this is the perfect book for all birdwatchers, or anyone who struggles to find motivation to get through the daily grind. Both a memoir and a practical guide to slowing down and noticing what’s around you, The Life‑Affirming Magic of Birds reveals how even the smallest encounters with nature can offer a renewed sense of connection. ‘It reads as the instructions for a nature prescription, something the world needs more of.’ – Nick Baker Charlie is a local nature writer and author. After completing a degree in archaeology at the University of York, Charlie began to reconnect with nature in her mid 20’s. She found that birds especially seemed to have the ability to help her through difficult times, and made it her life’s mission to share her love and passion with a wide audience. Charlie’s passion for the natural world shines across her social media platforms and in her work as a digital communications specialist and event manager for nature based charities. Charlie has written for various platforms and publications including Conker Magazine, Bird Table, The Guardian and Bald Hiker. There will be an author talk, audience Q&A and book signing. Doors open at 2pm. Seats are not allocated for this event. The Glapthorn room is accessible with free parking behind Fletton House and some spaces out front by Oundle library, including a disabled space in both areas. Refreshments (soft, alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and books will be available to purchase at the event.