slackline reviewed Grit Blocs by Dave Parry
Review of 'Grit Blocs' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
This is a book of love from the author who's passion for the gritstone that runs through the Pennine hills is expertly showcased through his expert eye and skill as a photographer. From the classic gritstone crags that lie to the west of Sheffield through Yorkshire to the northern Pennines and a smattering of problems from Lancashire inluding quarried grit and secluded venues hidden away in the woods as well as the bleak but beautiful moorland venues. Dave has covered everything with a detailed eye. Each double page showcases a single problem at a crag, although larger venues such as
Stanage and Thorn Crag get a couple of "blocs" highlighted by virtue of the volume and quality. This isn't just a photography book though as the text that accompanies each problem gives insight to the character of the venues, sometimes the history of classic problems and regularly highlights other problems …
This is a book of love from the author who's passion for the gritstone that runs through the Pennine hills is expertly showcased through his expert eye and skill as a photographer. From the classic gritstone crags that lie to the west of Sheffield through Yorkshire to the northern Pennines and a smattering of problems from Lancashire inluding quarried grit and secluded venues hidden away in the woods as well as the bleak but beautiful moorland venues. Dave has covered everything with a detailed eye. Each double page showcases a single problem at a crag, although larger venues such as
Stanage and Thorn Crag get a couple of "blocs" highlighted by virtue of the volume and quality. This isn't just a photography book though as the text that accompanies each problem gives insight to the character of the venues, sometimes the history of classic problems and regularly highlights other problems in the area that are worth seeking out so take the time to read this rather than just thumbing through the inspiring pictures. There is a good spread of grades covered which attests to the authors appreciation of quality over grades.
The format and layout brought to mind the classic [b:Stone Crusade: A Historical Guide to Bouldering in America|1828641|Stone Crusade A Historical Guide to Boulderin in America|John Sherman|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1387735272l/1828641.SX50.jpg|1828445] by John Sherman but in miniature because after all the UK is considerably smaller than the US, but no less in stature as Dave has produced an equally evocative record of the bouldering on offer in one specific region of the UK.
If you've sampled the delights of grit this book will bring a warm glow and if you haven't yet had the opportunity it will inspire you to make the pilgrimage. Recommend grabbing a copy before they disappear from the shelves.