John McEwen
Best books: Vincent by himself, edited by Bruce Ber- nard, designed by Derek Birdsall. A bril- liant and unprecedented synthesis of Van Gogh's pictures and letters. The Bayeux Tapestry by David M. Wilson, a sumptuous book about one of the wonders of the world, deserves honourable mention. John Ruskin, The Early Years by Tim Hilton, written with a style and fire in keeping with its still supremely influential subject. Roll on Vol 2. Freshwater Fish by Roger Phillips and Martyn Rix (Pan, £12.95/£7.95). A bible for fishermen, but also the most beautiful photographic book of the year — every European freshwater fish and its haunt in colour. Mention must also be made of Classic Roses by Peter Scales. (Collins Harvill, £30), the long-awaited bible for growers of old-fashioned roses.
Most overrated: Dante's 'Inferno', translated and illus- trated by Tom Phillips. Silly illustrations particularly reduce the sublime to the ridiculous.
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