Step, Edward, 1855-1931

Edward Step (1855–1931) was a British natural-history author whose biographical details are sparsely documented; he is remembered chiefly for three nature-reading books addressed to general readers. Drawing on British native plants and animals, he turned the identification of trees, wild flowers and wildlife into handy, portable guides for consultation on the spot. The phrase "Wayside and Woodland" in his titles points to his everyday perspective of observing along roadsides and in woods. Such writing does not aim at a grand system but values accurate description and clear prose, making it suitable for beginners and amateurs to follow. His works long served as introductory references to the British sylva, countryside plants and animals, and have had some influence in popularizing British natural history; they remain samples of the natural-history writing style of that period.