Jane Powers

I am sad to finish this book that I have been reading daily since January 1 of this year. Jane Powers has done a wonderful job taking us through the seasons, with glimpses of the many living things that can be seen and heard, learned from and marvelled at in wild Ireland. I would love to see a slightly bigger version of this book, where she has space to go into the folklore connected to the various plants and animals in greater detail. As it stands, most of the entries do not have folklore attached, but are nevertheless fascinating and pleasingly described. I enjoyed every moment of An Irish Nature Year and will doubtless begin it again another January.… (altro)

This is a book to keep close at hand for dreaming and for garden inspiration, or for planning a visit to Ireland and her homes and gardens. The author and photographer know and love Irish gardens. The chapters are wide-ranging and a favorite of mine is “Paradises Reinvented” where sadly neglected gardens are brought back to life. “Grand Big Gardens” shows us what is behind the gates of the Anglo-Irish gentry. I do love garden follies and “A Few Follies and Fancies” captures the whimsy and the magic of follies. Follies are curious structures of romantic appearance, often in the form of fake ruins or ancient appearing arches and bridges. In “Fields of Dreams” you will see private gardens open to visitors, like Anne Condell’s home in County Wicklow, which has an exuberant mix of flowers, vegetables and herbs. You may want to treat yourself to this book and give a copy as a gift to a dear gardening friend.… (altro)