Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

Synopsis

What readers are saying:

'Loved it!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'My favourite book' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'One of the most wonderful books I have ever read' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐


'Stunningly funny' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is the story of Dr Alfred Jones, a fisheries scientist - for whom diary-notable events include the acquisition of a new electric toothbrush and getting his article on caddis fly larvae published in 'Trout and Salmon' - who finds himself reluctantly involved in a project to bring salmon fishing to the Highlands of the Yemen - a project that will change his life, and the course of British political history for ever.

With a wickedly wonderful cast of characters - including a visionary Sheikh, a weasely spin doctor, Fred's devilish wife and a few thousand transplanted salmon - SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN is a novel about hypocrisy and bureaucracy, dreams and deniability, and the transforming power of faith and love.

'Warmly recommended to anyone searching for feelgood comedy with surprising bite' SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

'I really loved this book' Bill Nighy

Summary

Chapter 1:

* Introduces Dr. Alfred Jones, a fisheries scientist hired to assess the feasibility of introducing salmon to the Yemen.
* Real example: The author provides statistics on the challenges of introducing salmon to the Yemen, including extreme temperatures, lack of suitable habitat, and competition from local fish species.

Chapter 2:

* Dr. Jones travels to the Yemen to conduct his research.
* Real example: The author describes the harsh desert environment and the skeptical reactions of the local people.

Chapter 3:

* Dr. Jones meets Harriet Chetwode-Talbot, a representative of a wealthy sheikh who is sponsoring the project.
* Real example: The author highlights the contrast between Dr. Jones's scientific approach and Harriet's ambitious vision.

Chapter 4:

* Dr. Jones and Harriet work together to gather data and build support for the project.
* Real example: The author cites instances of local skepticism and resistance to the idea of introducing salmon.

Chapter 5:

* The project faces opposition from religious and environmental groups.
* Real example: The author describes the backlash from religious figures who view the introduction of salmon as an affront to local culture.

Chapter 6:

* Dr. Jones and Harriet must find a way to overcome these obstacles.
* Real example: The author emphasizes the importance of finding political allies and leveraging scientific evidence to support the project.

Chapter 7:

* Despite the challenges, the project gains momentum.
* Real example: The author provides an example of a successful trial release of salmon into a river in the Yemen.

Chapter 8:

* Dr. Jones and Harriet face personal and professional challenges.
* Real example: The author explores the emotional toll the project takes on both characters, particularly the strain on their relationship.

Chapter 9:

* The project culminates in a grand ceremony to celebrate the introduction of salmon to the Yemen.
* Real example: The author describes the triumphant release of the first salmon into a river before an audience of dignitaries and local villagers.

Chapter 10:

* The legacy of the project is debated and its impact on the Yemen is questioned.
* Real example: The author presents contrasting viewpoints on whether the project was a success or a failure, considering both its ecological implications and its socio-cultural significance.