A HAWK IN THE HAND. By Phillip Glasier. With an introduction by Eric Hosking OBE.

1990 1st edition. 8vo (160 x 241mm). Ppxiv,188. Colour and b/w photographs. Blue boards, spine titled in gilt.

"In this highly entertaining autobiography, Phillip Glasier introduces us to many of the different animals and birds (not to mention a few of the people) who have enriched his extraordinary life. ...It is not unusual to find a deer on the stairs or a baby barn owl waddling about the sofa. ...He tells of Mozart the eagle owl, who attended the Royal College of Music, his pioneer work breeding rare species in captivity, flying falcons for TV advertisements and travelling overland to Afghanistan." Chapters include: Off in the Gypsy; Dust and diversions; Musical wagons, Persian escapades; From Kandahar to Kabul; Bagpipes and bells; Strathconon; The Falconry Centre; Running the show; Captive breeding; Prize performers; A medley of birds; Lost, strayed and injured; Courses; The balloon trick; Yours desperately; American interlude; Search and rescue; Tunisian delight; Bloodhounds on the trail; A bustard hunt; Flying displays; Visitors and VIPs; A hawk of all seasons.