Product Description

In "Forgotten Fruits", Christopher Stocks tells the fascinating - often rather bizarre - stories behind Britain's rich heritage of fruit and vegetables. Take Newton Wonder apples, for instance, first discovered around 1870 allegedly growing in the thatch of a Derbyshire pub. Or the humble gooseberry which, among other things, helped Charles Darwin to arrive at his theory of evolution. Not to mention the ubiquitous tomato, introduced to Britain from South America in the sixteenth century but regarded as highly poisonous for nearly 200 years. This is a wonderful piece of social and natural history that will appeal to every gardener and food aficionado.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #110508 in Books
• Published on: 2009-05-07
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 320 pages

Review
... handsome and readable ... will be enjoyed by people interested in the diversity of British fruit and vegetables and the stories behind their development. --Joy Larkcom, The Garden, September 2008

fascinating ... a delicious trawl through the grocery box of Britain's traditional fruit and vegetables --Dorset Echo 31 May 2008

5 STARS '... superbly written ... do your bit to keep Britain's varied heritage going. --BBC Countryfile magazine, August 2008

Review
...my favourite book of the year. Written with passion and real knowledge of his subject ... you will be inspired.

From D'Arcy Spice apples to Orange Jelly turnips, all sorts of fruit and vegetable varieties are lovingly described here ... fascinating ... bound to inspire.

... makes the reader behave as though they are clutching a gripping novel ... much more than a historical guide.

Review
This gem of a book is learned and you will be able to disarm your guests with erudite lore ...

Customer Reviews

Fascinating fruits
Now that I am semi-retired from my job as a teacher, I, at last have some time to devote to my garden.I have discovered the delights of fruit and vgetable growing and our family meals have been supplemented this year by home grown broad beans, peas, potatoes, various herbs and strawberries. In addition I'm hoping that my runner beans will provide a decent crop despite the inclement weather this summer. My apple crop also looks promising.Whilst enjoying eating my home grown produce, I've also enjoyed reading about the history of many well known fruits and vegetables in this fascinating little book. This has kept me occupied when it has been pouring down outside.

Great Gift
This was a Christmas gift but know that it will be well recieved!! interesting and informative