All My Edens: a Gardener's Memoir

by Pat Welsh

In an appealing narrative style reminiscent of the writings of M.F.K. Fisher and Vita Sackville-West, this beguiling memoir takes readers on a stroll through the many gardens which acclaimed writer Pat Welsh has cultivated and loved. Accompanied by a wonderful array of vintage photos, excerpts from letters, and other memorabilia, All My Edens also includes a wealth of practical advice for gardening enthusiasts. 86 halftone photos & illustrations.

Genres: Gardening, Nonfiction

214 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1996

Reviews

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not a gardener, so waited years to crack this book—it had been recommended by my college alumnae magazine. What a wonderful read, tho! I still don't have a lot of ambition to garden, but I got some great tips and, most of all, a glimpse into an unconventional childhood and a wonderful life attitude. I savored it all.

[Samaire · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully charming, non-linear memoir of my favorite master gardener. Pat Welsh takes her reader down memory lane and revisits all the gardens of her life, from a child growing up on a grand but slightly dilapidated estate in England to her current Pacific home of Del Mar. Interspersed in the remembrances is a wealth of gardening advice gleaned over multiple decades and continents. Welsh's memoirs harken back to simpler times focusing on hard work, the joy of discovery, and the love of an eccentric family. This was a short read and I found myself wanting more of the heart warming story of Pat's life. With her wealth of knowledge and breath of experiences, she must have more tales to tell. Thankfully, she has shared her favorites with her readers. I highly recommend for gardening enthusiasts and biography readers.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a wonderful blend of gardening stories, personal life history, photo album and adventure story. I loved it.

"A small waterfall fell into the pond. On a round moss-coated rock under this waterfall sat a shiny green frog. It seemed to me that this place was sacred and that there had never been anything quite so beautiful. Time stood still. I was bathed by love, a deep understanding, and an awesome and comforting presence that went beyond words. I thought "This must be God." Then - splash! the frog leaped into the water and swam straight twards me. The sudden sound destroyed the mood, but the memooory remained." Page 48

Nature has a way of adopting children who need her attention." Page 49

[Roryz · Rating 5 out of 5]

a charming read. I enjoyed it very much, though it jumped around a bit. whether you are a gardener or not, a reader cannot help but be interested in Pat Welsh's memoir that begins in England and travels to California with stops in Pennsylvania and Florida. really lovely book.