The vegetation in Wadi El Gemal National Park in Egypt’s Eastern Desert is more diverse than might first be expected, but even more surprising is the relationship that the desert dwellers continue to have with the plant life in their habitat, despite the increasing modernization of their world. As a ranger in the park, Tamer Mahmoud quickly realized the importance of surveying, identifying, and documenting the indigenous plants, and recording the information he compiled from interviews with the local community about how they use the plants for food, healing, animal fodder, and fuel. The result is this detailed and colorful guide, which includes photographs of each plant, the scientific name and local name in Arabic and English, and information on location, distribution, uses, and ecology. A glossary, bibliography, visitors’ information section and distribution maps make this a comprehensive reference work that will interest visitors, scientists, anyone interested in the flora of arid areas, and even anthropologists.

This is a compact, clear, and authoritative bird identification guide for any birdwatcher visiting or residing in Egypt or traveling around the Middle East. Egypt is an increasingly popular destination for birdwatchers, and has a rich and varied bird life; 252 species are described here in detail, from the larks and sandgrouse of the barren deserts to the spectacular array of water birds in the wetlands of the Delta. With helpful thumbnail silhouettes, a map showing the best birding localities, up-to-date tips on birdwatching, and information on bird biology and behavior, this guide is an invaluable aid for any visiting birdwatcher.