This book traces the 400-year history of books about British butterflies. From Thomas Moffett's "The Theatre of Insects of 1634", through to the mass of modern-day guides and scientific works, some 600 titles are featured. The whole spectrum of butterfly-related literature is covered, from the earliest discovery and naming of butterflies in the British Isles to contemporary scientific works on ecology and conservation.
The book is illustrated with reproductions of fine prints from old butterfly and insect books, many in colour, along with photographs showing styles of typical bindings and book design.
David Dunbar is a lepidopterist, writer, photographer and antiquarian bookseller. He is a Trustee and Director of Butterfly Conservation and a member of the Amateur Entomologists' Society.