The Way of the Gardener: Lost in the Weeds Along the Camino de Santiago

by Lyndon Penner

Reverence takes on a new meaning in this original memoir of an avid gardener walking the Camino de Santiago. The Camino de Santiago has been a journey for pilgrims for more than 1,000 years, testing-to varying degrees-their spirit, faith, and physical endurance. Lyndon Penner's attention lies elsewhere. A renowned gardener and lover of literature, he revels in the plants, trees, and flowers that tell the history of the people and ecology of northern Spain. Brimming with wry observations-of nature, himself, and other pilgrims on the road- The Way of the Gardener reveals the beauty and the darkness of the human condition while underscoring the deeply fascinating nature of nature itself. This textured work makes for perfect armchair-or garden-reading.

• ISBN10: 088977806X
• ISBN13: 9780889778061
• Publish Date: 27 March 2021 (first published 1 March 2021)
• Publish Status: Active
• Publish Country: CA
• Imprint: University of Regina Press
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 180
• Language: English

Reviews

[annieb123]

Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

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