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Gardening Essays

Journeys to the Nearby

A Gardener Discovers the Gentle Art of Untravelling

by (author) Elspeth Bradbury

Publisher
Ronsdale Press
Initial publish date
Feb 2025
Category
Essays, Environmentalists & Naturalists, Meditation
  • Paperback / softback

    ISBN
    9781553807247
    Publish Date
    Feb 2025
    List Price
    $26.95

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Description

Inspired by adventures of world travellers but unwilling to rack up her fossil fuel consumption, Elspeth sets out with a deep curiosity to explore the world that exists in her own garden.

Told over the course of four seasons this is an inspiring book of the beauty in the small moments of discovery. After spending the winter holidays lazing comfortably with a stack of books by ambitiously adventurous travel writers, Elspeth soon realizes that their derring-do and far-flung, often gas-guzzling exploits, are not her cup of tea. But impressed by their energy she resolves to abandon her recliner to set off on a year-long journey of her own.

With a fresh dose of curiosity and a firm resolve to take her time, Elspeth invites the reader to join her as she ventures out to see the world as it resides in her own backyard. Her tentative efforts to learn the art of untravelling' become a voyage of discovery and rediscovery as she learns to slow down and observe.

With gentle humour and a warm, intimate and conversational style, Elspeth evokes her world as richly as any travel writer. Her elegant pen-and-ink drawings enrich the prose and add an extra layer of information.

A beautiful gift book for travellers, gardeners and those looking for solace in our overwhelming and relentlessly-fast-paced digital world.

About the author

Born in Greenock, Scotland, Elspeth Bradbury was educated at Manchester University and became a landscape architect. Her poems have been widely published.

Elspeth Bradbury's profile page

Editorial Reviews

Praise for Elspeth's previous books:

"One truly enters the lives of these women and feels the rhythm of their days. A most refreshing read for both keen gardeners and amateurs." - Globe and Mail

"They convey a humble amazement at gardeners' energy and a deep respect for the perennial passion to plant, order, and care for reluctant ground. Finishing their book, the reader will reach at once for the telephone to order a load of compost." - Quill and Quire

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