The Way of the Gardener is a lovely recollection of the author's pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago. Due out 27th March 2021 from the University of Regina Press, it's 180 pages and will be available in paperback format.
The author is a well known garden writer/podcaster/expert with a deft and sure voice in his writing. This is more philosophical and travel based than practical (there's no advice here how to get rid of spider mites or when to prune cherry trees), but nevertheless, it's written in a down to earth practical style which I found both accessible and appealing. He talks about his preparation for this massive (800km) journey in an endearing manner - his sticker shock over $250 hiking shoes had me nodding along in sympathy, for example.
I enjoyed this gently written, philosophical, slow-paced book over several days. His descriptive prose is basic and unvarnished. There's a distinct lack of flowery or overwrought language. I heartily recommend it to readers who enjoy travel journals, philosophical musings, and nature writing. The book is accompanied by delightful illustrations of flora and fauna along the way as well as small asides on the history and significance of plants and places along the way. Although not personally religious, the author takes care not to disparage the faith or feelings of his fellow pilgrims, which was nice.
Four stars. Very well written. This would make a great gift for fans of travel and nature writing.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
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