This is a beautiful book. It works quite well as a book of inspiration to translate to the reader's own gardening situation, as a story of a passionate (and self described odd) gardener's own odyssey to bring his own dreams to fruition, as a biography of an interesting person, and as a gorgeous book of garden photography.
The layout is logical and the text accessible. The introduction covers the beginning conditions of the gardens at Windcliff, and some of the background and psyche which Hinkley himself brought to the project. The following chapters show the different gardens and their genesis and growth. There are several gardens and each gets its own chapter. I especially loved the potager (veggie/food) garden because that's what resonates most closely with my own passion in gardening. The gardens are all beathtakingly gorgeous of course, but it's the somewhat plain and hardworking food garden which really got my blood pumping.
This is a beautiful book of inspiration for gardeners as well as a readable account of a cultured and intelligent man incorporating his vision through hard work and making it reality. I also thought the sentimental bits referencing his respect and affection for his partner were sweet, appropriate, and romantic. I sincerely believe if you scratch the surface of most gardeners you'll find a romantic under the dirt and briar scratches.
Five stars. I fully intend to buy my own personal copy of this one for my home library.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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