Richard Lewington has been setting the standard for invertebrate illustration for more than two decades. Indeed, it is surely fair to say that his artwork – with the words of collaborating authors – has been a key factor in the newfound popularity of various hitherto inaccessible or overlooked groups, such as micro-moths and solitary bees. Now, in this neat and compact guide, it is the spiders’ turn to get the Lewington treatment.

The book’s stated aim makes clear what it is – and is not – attempting to be. Most importantly, it is not a definitive guide to all Britain’s spider species, only a small portion of which can be identified without resorting to collecting specimens and microscopic examination. Instead, the aim is to provide an introduction to the more common and readily identified species, and to encourage interest in this ‘oft-maligned group’. So, does it succeed?

Choosing which species to include/exclude in a book like this is a challenge, and one that can only be fully overcome with a deep understanding of the subject group. This guide nails its brief, covering all the species that, firstly, are likely to be noticed by someone with a casual interest (many spiders will only be found with determined effort or specialist techniques), and, secondly, can be recognised in the field – either at species level, or as belonging to a particular group. As such, it offers a manageable number of species without confusing matters with spiders that, realistically, will not be found without considerable luck or skill – a perfect selection for anyone just starting out with this remarkable group of invertebrates. For those whose interest never graduates beyond that point, this guide will provide a reliable companion for any casual encounters in gardens and the wider countryside. For a decent chunk of readers, however, I suspect that it will represent the jumping off point for a far deeper interest.