The Story of Seeds: From Mendel's Garden to Your Plate, and How There's More of Less to Eat Around the World

by Nancy F. Castaldo

Something as small as a seed can have a worldwide impact. Did you know there are top-secret seed vaults hidden throughout the world? And once a seed disappears, that’s it—it’s gone forever? With the growth of genetically modified foods, the use of many seeds is dwindling—of 80,000 edible plants, only about 150 are being cultivated. With a global cast of men and women, scientists and laypeople, and photographic documentation, Nancy Castaldo chronicles where our food comes from, and where it is going as she digs deeper into the importance of seeds in our world.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science, Middle Grade, Gardening, Food, Teen, Nature

144 pages, Hardcover

First published February 23, 2016

About the author

Nancy Castaldo is an award winning author of children's books, a certified National Geographic educator, and photographer.

She loves writing books for curious readers that get them thinking about the world around them.

Reviews

[Laurisa Reyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most important books for young readers written in years. Not only was every page compelling and chock full of eye-opening details and information, but The Story of Seeds moved me to action. Every student, parent, and teacher ought to read this book--and then follow Castaldo's call to action. - Laurisa Reyes, Editor-in-Chief of Middle Shelf Magazine

[Laura Larson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting, thought provoking, and well-written. The information provided was all easily digestible (heh, see what I did there) and not "dumbed down" for the target audience. 3 stars because the present tense writing style (I am sitting, I am going) wasa bit off-putting.

[Kimberly Sabatini · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Story Of Seeds was a fascinating and inspirational read, unlocking the past while also giving us a glimpse into the future of our food. This easy to read text was loaded with unsung heroes, easily digestible information, passion, hope and a plan for the future. This should be a staple in all middle school and high school libraries.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is so fascinating. I found the fate of seeds worrisome. But I’m enlightened by seed advocates and the plans and seed banks they have created.

[Laura Gardner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seeds are the building block of life and an essential tool for human survival. The Story of Seeds looks first at the original plant scientists like Mendel, Burbank and Vavilov. Then Castaldo profiles people who are working to protect seed biodiversity and explores the modern seed crisis. From genetic modification to war to climate change, the threats to seeds and our food supply is explored in great depth. Seed vaults around the world exist to protect the future of plant diversity, but during times of war these seed vaults are often targeted. Castaldo heralds the brave scientists who endeavor to protect and hide stores of seeds like Dr. El Sheikh in Iraq. Another issue explored at depth is that of seed patents and the effect on farmers in developing countries. Farmers in India have actually been committing suicide in large numbers because they are not allowed to save their seeds from year to year. Final chapters address heirloom seeds, the “doomsday” vault in Norway, and more. Includes a call to action section, a list of seed companies online, a list of seed libraries, a glossary, suggested resources and an index.
Well researched, clearly presented and beautifully constructed, this nonfiction book is perfect for research projects. Color images are scattered throughout along with pull-out definitions. Full page close-up color images of seeds start each chapter. Highly recommended.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read several pre-release reviews of this book, I gladly came across it at the library the other day. What an important little book about seeds in general and the biodiversity that is in our world. The author examines how this diversity has been and continues to be lost, and also profiles a few of the people who are trying to preserve the rapid diminishing of genetic diversity, especially in our food crops. She also gives ideas of how each person can do something to help. No matter what you think of GMO (genetically modified organism) vs. non-GMO seeds, this book will give you pause to think about what is really happening and the consequences (unintended or not) that will be visited on future generations.

[Tammy Mannarino · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not sure how they decided that this book was for "Young Readers" because it was plenty detailed and complex. Perhaps it was the inclusion of many pictures (which are awesome). I learned a great deal from this book about the existence and history of seed banks and people who lost their lives protecting them. I've previously read about the legal issues surrounding GMOs (copyrights and cross pollination) but this goes into some of the international impacts (e.g. Suicide rate of farmers in India). This was a great mix of history, and science with a touch of practical advocacy.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book a compelling read. In the whole scheme of things, seed banks are probably much more important than "money" banks. My personal opinion is that this book and the science fiction book, The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi, should go hand in hand.

[Edward Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great information engagingly presented in a compact book appealingly designed and illustrated.

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the book I was looking for but a good premise -- "how we're eating more and more of less and less." Book 17 of quarantine.

[Tracy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a want to be gardener, I like the idea of growing my own food, but really can grow zuchinni and flowers. This book contains a lot of information about people who are trying to preserve the genetic information that plants have. It does not look favorably on genetic engineering. I am not sure if the author is against the idea of genetic engineering or the fact that the companies who are doing the engineering are exploiting the people who are using the seeds that have been genetically engineered.
I like the information about the people who are trying to save the genetic code of plans, but I felt like there were snippets of information, that did not flow together as a narrative.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting read, and a great introduction to the topic of seeds, crops and global farming practices. It would have been 5 stars for me, but I felt like there should have been more information and examples used in the book, or at least more of an in-depth discussion about the topics highlighted (biopiracy, GMO's, crop diversity, etc.) There were enough snippets of information to be compelling and enough to interest me in looking into the topic more on my own; I just would have liked to see a bit more included in this book.

[Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pleasant excursion into the stories behind the little packages of life we depend on, called seeds. It's a great way to introduce younger readers (or the uninitiated adult reader) to seeds. It includes brief stories about the importance of seeds to humanity, and includes many aspects of developing new varieties of seed, long-term storage in high-tech seed banks, the differences between traditional seed selection and genetically modified seed (GMO), and some of the people who deserve to be known for their work with seeds.

[Zahnii (Suzanne) Artis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an informative book! There is a seed crisis across the globe and seed warriors have been stepping up for decades to preserve seeds, some losing their lives to do so. Great explanations of genetic modification and other agricultural terms, while outlining practical ways to become a seed activist. Extremely enlightening and inspiring.

[Madeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great overview of principles and practices of seed saving/seed banks appropriate for middle grade-adult readers. I'll recommend it to high school gardeners and history buffs, as well as adults looking to learn a bit more.

[Iris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting introduction to the topic. I wish it had included more of the science involved. But the book did make me want to go out and buy seeds to plant a garden of my own.

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating! I need to preserve my mother and grandmother's pickling cucumber seeds!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nonfiction, for middle grade and up. I was introduced to this book when I saw the author speak on a panel of accurate agriculture books for children. Though she was promoting her newer title, she talked about this one and I was curious to learn more. I have always been around gardening in small doses- my dad has a huge vegetable farm and as a teen I mowed the large field that my great-grandfather used for hay. Now that I am an adult, I have been interested in gardening on my own.

Anyway, I decided to check this book out. It is nonfiction, very well-researched on multiple topics centered around seeds and biodiversity. I loved that it was a truly global perspective-- featuring Syria, Russia, Mexico, Iraq, and more. The idea is that the world has seeds for plants that have evolved to succeed in certain environments or for certain purposes. But as corporate seeds take over and farmers increasingly plant one variety of their crops, the seed diversity of the world is in danger. For example the bananas that were eaten in the 40s were wiped out by a blight, and now most of the world eats one single kind of banana. If another blight comes, it could be devastating, especially for nations that have that as a staple crop. In NY, seeds from seagrasses were saved and were able to be used to rebuild the dunes after Hurricane Sandy. This is a very interesting book, filled with interviews and stories but also a call to action. The back matter is extensive, with seed libraries, companies selling heirloom seeds, a timeline of important seed-related events, a glossary, and other resources. Recommended for those interested in gardening, environmental justice, or climate change.

[megs · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compelling case for the importance of protecting biodiversity (ahem Irish Potato Famine or Panama disease Cavendish bananas), encouraging sustainable agriculture, raising food awareness, the real harm that GMO crops cause to farmers themselves, and the inspiring, selfless dedication of scientists (such as Russian scientists protecting thousands of seeds in a vault for 900 days when the Germans were attacking and bombing Leningrad and none of the scientists dared to eat the seeds— instead they starved to death to preserve the seeds and ensure that millions of Russians would recover and be able to grow these seeds OR Dr. Shiva’s activism towards globally advocating against India’s biopiracy and supporting local community workers instead of manufactured goods). Surprisingly enough, this is also a book of adventure— from scientific feuds to Chinese spy rings’ attempts to smuggle American corn to Nikolai Vavilov’s seed-collecting expeditions and eventual death in a prison camp (Stalin didn’t like him lol). I also learned about the legalities and stronghold that corporations have (ie. patenting) over farming that has dramatically revolutionized the nature of farming. Also, heirloom varieties must be protected! Another fun fact is that there is literally a “Doomsday Vault” in the middle of a cold mountain in snowy Norway (thanks Dr. Cary Fowler) that stores thousands of seed varieties and every country has a specific key to access their own cryogenic tanks of seed samples. This easy read opened my eyes to the multitude of massive implications that humans will undergo if we do not take action to care about seeds!

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book full of color photos, but more importantly, colorful accounts of "seed warriors" around the world who are intent on preserving the purity of the world's seed population for the future of our food source. In clear language and careful explanation and definition, Castaldo uses this book as an educational platform for kids -- it's a juvenile nonfiction book -- though certainly relevant and informative for adults. There is a lot of history here, as well as global economics and agriculture, but all very accessible. Looking at Mendel's study of genetics and then moving into 20th century crises like WWII (Nazis were as intent on stealing seeds as they were in stealing art) and bio-engineering, many individuals who have heroically defended seeds with their lives and livelihood are highlighted and extolled. There are seed vaults and seed libraries and an impressive 21st century movement to return to natural whole foods and natural means of creating them, as well as finding ways for crop equity around the world. The book ends with a Call to Action for steps average people can take to make a difference, as well as 5 pages of resources to learn more.

[Kirsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really opened my eyes to the perils of losing so many types of seeds (biodiversity). For example, I had no idea a key reason the potato famine in Ireland was so devastating was that Irish farmers only grew a single type of potato. Castaldo has a wonderful way of using analogies and historical examples to make the information exciting and understandable. In places, the book read like a spy novel, like when she recounts scientists trying to save seedbanks from encroaching armies. This book will turn any reader into seed activist. And Castaldo offers help on the way with lots of activities in the backmatter.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

An important book and call to action. More than one in five plants on earth are threatened with extinction. Of the 12.000 plants species used for human food only about 150 are being grown for sale and only 8! grains are traded throughout the world. This book covers a lot of ground. Several seed heroes putting their lives in jeopardy to save valued seeds that if they disappear would be gone forever. A chapter on heirloom seeds. A good explanation for GM seeds and the danger to organic farms near the growing of GMOs. Published as a children's book, I found it concise and valuable for adults. Recommended.

[Lizzy Hartwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really opened my eyes to the perils of losing so many types of seeds (biodiversity). For example, I had no idea a key reason the potato famine in Ireland was so devastating was that Irish farmers only grew a single type of potato. Castaldo has a wonderful way of using analogies and historical examples to make the information exciting and understandable. In places, the book read like a spy novel, like when she recounts scientists trying to save seedbanks from encroaching armies. This book will turn any reader into seed activist. And Castaldo offers help on the way with lots of activities in the backmatter.

[Diane B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great overview of some of the key issues influencing biodiversity and food security. This is a complex subject, because to grasp GMO you need a base understanding of biology, agriculture, and food delivery systems. What I like about the book, is it is not overly preachy or doomsday-scary, while it presents facts and perspective and a modicum of hope.

The book also touches on some of the activists and seed banks around the world that are advocating practices that could make a huge difference in the future of the planet and communities around the world.

Definitely worth a read.

[Linda Yeatts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I never knew how much intrigue, history, sacrifice, and sheer beauty there is attached to the subject of SEEDS. I really loved this little tome because: 1. I love science and all things natural in the world. 2. I have loved seeds since the 3rd grade when our assignment for class would be to collect as many hitchhiker seeds as we could for a school project. Still remember the tiger butter sun, slightly turning leaves, deep blue sky....3. I love to learn. This book hit every itch!

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I sometimes like the short books better because they are more precise. I feel like I should know some of the stuff on Mendel, but it was cool hearing about a Russian who started such an intensive seed bank during WWII, that people died defending the seed bank. I need to learn more about seed banks, as I saw a movie this year that featured them.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

More about plant diversity and the danger posed to our food crops because of the loss of plants and seeds. There are shout-outs to people all around the world saving and storing seeds, others saving and sharing seeds -- who knew some libraries shared seeds? Resources at the end. Timely and terrifying.

[Nadine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thought provoking book about seeds, combining some history, mystery and science. Mixture narrative / factual. Great resource for MYP / Middle School. Colour illustrations, pop out boxes, contents, index, glossary, timeline, sources, investigate further
SDG 1 - Poverty, SDG 2- Hunger & SDG 15 - Life on Land

[Kristyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book on the importance of seeds in our worlds biodiversity, economy, social issues, and culture, is perfect for its audience of young readers/young adults. The passages focused on what people around the world are doing to save our vanishing biodiversity were inspiring amidst the troubles their society is facing. It ends with information on what the reader can do to save seeds.

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fascinating book. I learned a lot about heirloom plants, the protection of seeds for future generations, the importance of seed vaults, the many scientists and laymen who are involved in securing heirloom seeds, and how everyone can have a share in protecting our planet's natural resources.