Growing Roots (the book)

          I just spent an hour poring over Growing Roots, The New Generation of Sustainable Farmers, Cooks and Food Activists by Katherine Leiner, with breathtaking photographs by Andrew Lipton.

          This is a gift from the author, who I’ve known since I was ten years old. Because we’re so broke, I asked her if she would send me a copy for Christmas. I wasn’t embarrassed to ask this of Katherine, because she has always granted my requests. She’s been the most reliable, comforting friend I’ve ever had. She was there for me when I thought my parents were getting divorced, when my first boyfriend broke my heart, when I was confused and didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life.  She’s still there for me, when I feel vulnerable, or scared. She always listens patiently, does not pass judgment and offers simple suggestions to get me back on track.

         

          I knew Katherine had been working on this book a long time. After all she was going to interview people all over the United States. The travel alone seemed exhausting.  I knew the book would be good, because all of Katherine’s books are written and edited to the highest standards.  I knew it would be interesting to read.

          But I had no idea how gorgeous it was, until I felt its heft in my hands. I didn’t realize that I, too, would feel a fondness for the individuals who dedicate their lives to producing the most delicious, healthful foods.  The darling young couples, their rosy cheeked children, the beautifully composed photos with their rich saturated colors!  And the recipes, contributed by each interviewee, amazing! My mouth watered as I read.

          After leafing through each page, I stopped to read the last interview in the book. My heart swelled to see that Katherine’s daughter – a fellow Taurus like myself – has found her calling living and working on a farm.  From starting seeds indoors in the harsh Vermont winters, to participating in the butchering of their livestock, this funny little girl I knew has become a thoughtful, hardworking, woman. She understands the cycles of life and death and her part in it.  And she loves it!

          Bravo Katherine! It is with such pride that I spread the word about your magnum opus.  The book is stunning and I can’t wait to read all the interviews and try the tantalizing recipes.  Thank you for this gift, dear friend.  It’s perfect.