The Archer’s Craft

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft -

The Archer’s Craft Customer Review: Spendid read on the History and craft of bowmaking
We all know from childhood how to make a bow and arrow from a thin branch, a piece of string and a sharpened stick. A.E. Hodgkin knows how to do it correctly. He starts the book with a history of archery quoting extracts from various historical sources on its rise and fall as a military weapon, its revival, survival and dismissal under the various Kings and Queens of England. He describes the types of wood for bows and arrows giving reasons for their choice. His writing is splendidly readable being both simplistic and impassioned. Written in the 1950’s he tells a knowledgeable and enlightening lesson with a delightful attitude so laid back that he is truly professional. A Rick Stein of Archery. The second half of the book describes the simple methods of bow and arrow making at home, in the sun, on the doorstep. The last part of the book deals with hunting with the bow and the various techniques learnt through listening and observing. It is evident Hodgkin didn’t waste his time watching television, but instead absorbed himself in his hobby, learning his craft, reading and practising. Fortunately for us he took time out to patiently impart the facts to the reader in a most relaxed and enjoyable style.