Beach Reads

By Cindy Bilbao

Mudlark’d

By Malcolm Russell

Author Malcolm Russell is an experienced mudlark who has curated a selection of artifacts found while searching the shores of the River Thames in London. These objects tell fascinating stories about “forgotten people” like street musicians, quack doctors, and more. Russell has meticulously researched the finds, and makes connections between the objects and the members of society they belonged to. He explains that “the owners of these artifacts were often marginalized or censured people who remain underrepresented in history books.”

One example is the section titled “Gamesters.” Russell shows off a great close-up photo of a found die made of bone, and we learn about the rise of gambling 18th century and the methods some players used to cheat. In the “Entertainers” section, Russell examines a tobacco pipe adorned with the image of a descending parachutist, and shares the untold and fascinating stories of Edwardian-era parachutists. I particularly appreciate the unique choice Russell made to focus not on the many everyday items that can be found when mudlarking, but rather on the unusual stories of forgotten people who used them.

The book is beautifully bound, and photographer Matthew Williams-Ellis has enhanced the pages with fabulous photos of the river, making it a perfect coffee-table book to spark some lively conversations. Beachcombers and history buffs alike will enjoy this meticulously-researched gem.

The Sea Glass Sisterhood

Poem by Silke Stein, Art by Christina Gray

This beautiful book aims to bring beachcombers together, celebrating our sisterhood of souls who thrive beside the water. The author and artist beautifully and poetically explore the bond that beachcombers share, and their work is bound to bring a smile to your face as you reflect on your own beachcombing experiences.

The book is filled with illustrations created by an assemblage artist who gathers shells, sea glass, driftwood, and found objects, and uses them to create charming scenes of women enjoying their beach day together. You’ll find yourself spending time looking at each beautiful illustration with amazement.

This book makes a wonderful gift, coffee-table book, or something to read at the beach at while you’re soaking in the sun. Perhaps after you’ve read it you’ll be inspired to collect your beach-found treasures and try to create your own art out of them.

This article appeared inBeachcombing Volume 36: May/June 2023.

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