There are more books on landscape painting than just about any subject. It’s an endlessly varied topic that offers challenges and rewards in equal measure. However, if you think you’ve seen it all before, think again.

In this intriguing and informative little book, Hazel goes right back to basics – even discussing what a landscape painting is. It’s an illusion, she tells us. Capturing a complex, three-dimensional subject on a flat piece of paper is magic, sleight of hand where tone, colour and perspective not only put the viewer in the artist’s shoes, but tell them what it was like to be there.

The big advantage a short book has is brevity and there are no lengthy explanations or exercises here. Hazel has summed up the wisdom of a lifetime in short paragraphs that tell you everything you need to know. She’ll immediately have you wanting to try ideas both old and new for yourself.

Less here really is more and the lack of extensive detail makes everything Hazel says crystal clear. It may be short, but this is one of the best and most comprehensive books on landscape around.