I’m late writing this review, but I blame Anna Pavord; her wonderful prose, her wide range of garden related subjects, short independent pieces come together in one delightful whole and I am loath to finish it. As the garden year winds down this is just what the garden lover needs, wise words, sage advice, ideas and views on the garden. Seductive writing indeed, her wit and reflections have quite a galvanising effect for Anna Pavord takes gardening away from the “experts” and makes it something for everyone, we might fail but we never give up, next year, next Spring – then it will all go right - and - because we’ve been inspired by Anna Pavord’s passions, we will plant Tulips, great swathes of Tulips.

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Synopsis

In The Curious Gardener, Anna Pavord brings together in 12 chapters - one from each month of the year - 72 pieces on all aspects of gardening. From what to do in each month and how to get the best from flowers, plants, herbs, fruit and vegetables, through reflections on the weather, soil, the English landscape and favourite old gardening clothes, to office greenery, spring in New York, waterfalls, Derek Jarman and garden design, Anna Pavord always has something interesting to say and says it with great style and candour. The perfect book to guide you through the gardening year and, on days when the weather keeps the most courageous gardener indoors, the perfect book to curl up with beside the fire.

Reviews

'This collection of Pavord's writings, arranged month by month, manages to be both eloquent and amusing ... As ever, Pavord doesn't take herself too seriously and has a wonderfully light touch' Sunday Times 'Gardening Book of the Year'

'Lively, conversational and personal, it's a charming bedside read' Country Life

'Splendid ... an intimate portrait of a passionate gardener' Sunday Herald

'A most inviting volume ... Her vivid, conversational style, and wonderful range of knowledge on all sorts of subjects other than gardening, makes this a garden book that you could read straight through, like a novel' Daily Mail

About the Author

Anna Pavord is the gardening correspondent for the Independent and the author of several books including the internationally acclaimed bestseller, The Tulip. As well as writing for the Observer for twenty years, she has contributed to Country Life, Country Living and Elle Decoration, and is an associate editor of Gardens Illustrated.   Photograph © George Wright   More books by this author Author 'Like for Like' recommendation