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Costa's World: Gardening for the soil, the soul and the suburbs
The long-awaited book from the beloved host of ABC TV's Gardening Australia
Bringing together all of Costa's gardening and sustainability knowledge, this is a book for the whole family that reflects Costa's philosophy and quirky sense of fun.
Costa's World is a generous, joyous, fully illustrated gardening book that celebrates the life-changing joy of chooks; kids in the garden; big ideas for small spaces; Costa's favourite plants; growing the right plants for your conditions; biodiversity in the soil and garden; the power of community; the brilliance of bees and pollinators; easy-peasy permaculture; and much, much more.
Bringing together all of Costa's gardening and sustainability knowledge, this is a book for the whole family that reflects Costa's philosophy and quirky sense of fun.
Costa's World is a generous, joyous, fully illustrated gardening book that celebrates the life-changing joy of chooks; kids in the garden; big ideas for small spaces; Costa's favourite plants; growing the right plants for your conditions; biodiversity in the soil and garden; the power of community; the brilliance of bees and pollinators; easy-peasy permaculture; and much, much more.
320 pages, Paperback
Published October 13, 2021
29 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 1, 2021
I marked it as finished reading, but in this case that means I have scanned through each page and stopped and many to read and enjoy, but will be repeatedly retreading and cherry picking for joy or for information. One of those never finished and never makes it to a shelf but always on a table, available.
Absolutely delightful in its presentation
Incredibly interesting and informative and can be enjoyed by almost every age and experience level.
Not just a garden book. Not just and recycle/repurpose and reuse ideas book. Not just an environmental awareness book. But all of these things and more.
Absolutely delightful in its presentation
Incredibly interesting and informative and can be enjoyed by almost every age and experience level.
Not just a garden book. Not just and recycle/repurpose and reuse ideas book. Not just an environmental awareness book. But all of these things and more.
January 15, 2023
This book gives a broad brush stroke over a myriad of topics regarding, sustainability, gardening, climate and community.
There is plenty of food for thought and it provides resources to help you did deeper into topics of interest.
There is plenty of food for thought and it provides resources to help you did deeper into topics of interest.
September 24, 2021
Thank you Harper Collins for sending us a copy to read and review.
Gardening may not be everyone’s cup of tea but for a lot it is an enjoyable and rewarding pastime.
Costa Georgiadis has over the years made a name for himself on his own show and hosting Gardening Australia.
His approach to gardening is enthusiastic, practical and gentle on the earth and the environment.
He oozes charisma and charm but most importantly his passion shines.
This amazing book has everything you need to know how to start, sort out your soil, create bee habitats and build bio diversity.
It’s underlining message is to minimise your footstep on the planet and be rewarded with what homegrown food and creating your own oasis.
Each chapter is interesting and interspersed with facts and tips.
This down to earth style will boost confidence and inspire any one from a novice to an experienced gardener.
In these trying times if nothing else gardening is great for the soul and cures lockdown boredom.
This comprehensive guide is one of the best I’ve seen without feeling intimidated.
I have been a fan of Costa’s for over a decade and admire his knowledge and ability to break down barriers in community, refugee or school gardens .
A book that you can pickup up at anytime for quick reference or in my case gardening indulgence.
Gardening may not be everyone’s cup of tea but for a lot it is an enjoyable and rewarding pastime.
Costa Georgiadis has over the years made a name for himself on his own show and hosting Gardening Australia.
His approach to gardening is enthusiastic, practical and gentle on the earth and the environment.
He oozes charisma and charm but most importantly his passion shines.
This amazing book has everything you need to know how to start, sort out your soil, create bee habitats and build bio diversity.
It’s underlining message is to minimise your footstep on the planet and be rewarded with what homegrown food and creating your own oasis.
Each chapter is interesting and interspersed with facts and tips.
This down to earth style will boost confidence and inspire any one from a novice to an experienced gardener.
In these trying times if nothing else gardening is great for the soul and cures lockdown boredom.
This comprehensive guide is one of the best I’ve seen without feeling intimidated.
I have been a fan of Costa’s for over a decade and admire his knowledge and ability to break down barriers in community, refugee or school gardens .
A book that you can pickup up at anytime for quick reference or in my case gardening indulgence.
September 28, 2022
Beautifully written, and more about the environment than gardening. It makes one want to be a better person!
November 13, 2021
So full of ideas and inspiration! Costa doesn’t delve too deep into any one topic, but provides heaps of resources for each one so that you can further explore it if you’re interested. Easy and fun to read with lots of illustrations. Something in there for everyone at every stage of their sustainability journey.
July 18, 2023
Do you know the Eastern Regional Libraries have a Seed Library available at eight of its branch libraries?
In ERL’s words, it is “a free borrowing service aiming to cultivate a thriving community of gardeners and seed savers, while building and sharing knowledge, and fostering community resilience, self-reliance, and a culture of sharing”.
As we donate, borrow, sow and grow the seeds from our local libraries – and as the prices of fresh vegetables and fruit are likely to remain high for months – now is a good time to dig into Costa’s World by Costa Georgiadis, host of ABC TV’s Gardening Australia.
Those expecting an easy-peasy read about growing flowers, herbs and vegetables will be pleasantly surprised, as the book reflects Costa’s philosophy and expertise in sustainability to such an extent that it can be seen as a great piece of popular science writing.
And it is much more than gardening. From biodiversity to biosecurity, from foraging to farmers’ markets, from kids to communities, and from beneficial insects to chickens – it is all about living sustainably, regeneratively and harmoniously, with nature and with each other.
In his writing, Costa often mentions how his grandparents as first-generation migrants fostered his early interest in gardening and sharing, and how his parents built upon that foundation to infuse community in him.
“It was expected that we would participate in conversations and learn from everyone, no matter who they were, what they did, how old they were or what culture they came from… I see community gardens and the growing and sharing of food resonate with the same notes of inclusion and communal ethic that echoed throughout my youth.”
That resonance is prominent throughout the book, as Costa takes a holistic approach to inspiring innovation, connection and collaboration, as well as mutual understanding and respect. It applies not only to our friends and neighbours, but also to our environment and natural resources.
Costa also refers to numerous community and school projects, as well as experts and industry professionals, whose visions, insights, achievements and hard-earned knowledge and skills have helped to make our world a better place. Readers are invited to “dig deeper”, learning from these role models and applying the principles to their own gardens.
The chapter on permaculture is one of the most explicit and accessible writings that anyone would ever see. Also enjoyable are the chapters on various garden friends, as Costa’s love and passion for these creatures is so contagious, it brings a smile to your face.
Most importantly, there is an everlasting “infectious enthusiasm” in Costa that makes his writing engaging, entertaining and informative. In his own words, it is a “capacity to tell a story and create a narrative that shifts perspective and opens up new ways of thinking. looking and acting in the world”. It is every storyteller’s dream – to captivate, stimulate and excite.
As the book’s subtitle suggests, Costa’s World is all about “gardening for the soil, the soul and the suburbs”. Highly recommended.
Note: This book review was originally written under the title “Engaging, entertaining and informative writing”, and published under the title “Engaging, Informative” by Ranges Trader Star Mail on April 5, 2022, P.17.
In ERL’s words, it is “a free borrowing service aiming to cultivate a thriving community of gardeners and seed savers, while building and sharing knowledge, and fostering community resilience, self-reliance, and a culture of sharing”.
As we donate, borrow, sow and grow the seeds from our local libraries – and as the prices of fresh vegetables and fruit are likely to remain high for months – now is a good time to dig into Costa’s World by Costa Georgiadis, host of ABC TV’s Gardening Australia.
Those expecting an easy-peasy read about growing flowers, herbs and vegetables will be pleasantly surprised, as the book reflects Costa’s philosophy and expertise in sustainability to such an extent that it can be seen as a great piece of popular science writing.
And it is much more than gardening. From biodiversity to biosecurity, from foraging to farmers’ markets, from kids to communities, and from beneficial insects to chickens – it is all about living sustainably, regeneratively and harmoniously, with nature and with each other.
In his writing, Costa often mentions how his grandparents as first-generation migrants fostered his early interest in gardening and sharing, and how his parents built upon that foundation to infuse community in him.
“It was expected that we would participate in conversations and learn from everyone, no matter who they were, what they did, how old they were or what culture they came from… I see community gardens and the growing and sharing of food resonate with the same notes of inclusion and communal ethic that echoed throughout my youth.”
That resonance is prominent throughout the book, as Costa takes a holistic approach to inspiring innovation, connection and collaboration, as well as mutual understanding and respect. It applies not only to our friends and neighbours, but also to our environment and natural resources.
Costa also refers to numerous community and school projects, as well as experts and industry professionals, whose visions, insights, achievements and hard-earned knowledge and skills have helped to make our world a better place. Readers are invited to “dig deeper”, learning from these role models and applying the principles to their own gardens.
The chapter on permaculture is one of the most explicit and accessible writings that anyone would ever see. Also enjoyable are the chapters on various garden friends, as Costa’s love and passion for these creatures is so contagious, it brings a smile to your face.
Most importantly, there is an everlasting “infectious enthusiasm” in Costa that makes his writing engaging, entertaining and informative. In his own words, it is a “capacity to tell a story and create a narrative that shifts perspective and opens up new ways of thinking. looking and acting in the world”. It is every storyteller’s dream – to captivate, stimulate and excite.
As the book’s subtitle suggests, Costa’s World is all about “gardening for the soil, the soul and the suburbs”. Highly recommended.
Note: This book review was originally written under the title “Engaging, entertaining and informative writing”, and published under the title “Engaging, Informative” by Ranges Trader Star Mail on April 5, 2022, P.17.
February 7, 2022
I didn't want this book to end and already I know it will be my number one pick for the year. As someone who has recently returned to dabbling with gardening I thought this book would help with my basic knowledge. It did, but this book is about so much more than just gardening. This book is really a holistic approach to not only gardening but sustainability in general. It is one of those rare books that if enough people read, true change in this world would occur. It has inspired me to do more with my simple space and it encourages the reader and shows practical ways you can make a positive difference. Costa himself says that he has only just provided enough information to get started and there were topics in there I wanted more information on, but he has also generously provided further reading in each chapter. It is almost like a chose your own adventure book, find in here what fires you up and go forth and dive into it further. An inspiring and educational read.
January 26, 2022
Costa is all round passionate, smart and in tune with the earth kinda fella, who's life purpose it seems is to educate and inspire all walks of life to connect with the land that surrounds them.
This book won't give you exact details on setting up garden plots, growing methods and landscaping your garden but merely provides points of consideration and awareness relating to preserving our planet, recognising micro eco systems and working in harmony with them to promote sustainability through permicutural landcare and regeneration practices in our own homes and community.
The information in this book is clear, concise and on point, providing the reader with a glimpse into Costas passions and positive life mindsets.
I can almost hear his voice narrating the words as I read it.
A must have on every gardeners bookshelf!
This book won't give you exact details on setting up garden plots, growing methods and landscaping your garden but merely provides points of consideration and awareness relating to preserving our planet, recognising micro eco systems and working in harmony with them to promote sustainability through permicutural landcare and regeneration practices in our own homes and community.
The information in this book is clear, concise and on point, providing the reader with a glimpse into Costas passions and positive life mindsets.
I can almost hear his voice narrating the words as I read it.
A must have on every gardeners bookshelf!
November 20, 2021
Brilliant, beautiful book ! Written from the heart. Full of fascinating, useful information. Clear style, gorgeous illustrations. Packed with positivity, hope and inspiration. An absolute pleasure in every way.
A best seller from a living treasure. I thought it would be excellent. It exceeded all expectations. A triumph of skills, experience and expertise. Gardening with grace and love from a much loved garden gnome.
Educational, energetic, enthusiastic and enthralling.
Expertly written, designed and made. Thank you !
A best seller from a living treasure. I thought it would be excellent. It exceeded all expectations. A triumph of skills, experience and expertise. Gardening with grace and love from a much loved garden gnome.
Educational, energetic, enthusiastic and enthralling.
Expertly written, designed and made. Thank you !
January 9, 2022
Beautifully presented this book is a good introduction to sustainability and gardening. I liked all the resources mentioned for more information. I didn't find much new or inspirational content but I have read alot of books on the topics covered in this book.
October 28, 2021
Fun and educational, has given me lots of ideas and projects to try. Loved it.
March 1, 2022
Easy to read, lots of info about sustainable gardening in the suburbs like permaculture, productive gardens, helping pollinators etc.
July 14, 2022
Full of so much information. This is a book to keep, dipping into it for inspiration and Costa’s contagious positivity.
October 30, 2022
I just think everyone in Australia should read this. Completely inspiring.
June 13, 2023
I love how Costa is so personable and inspiring, and this carries through to his book. I haven't finished it yet but couldn't wait to jump on here and review it anyway.
Costa joins practical, simple-to-apply advice with the human side of living in an age largely separated from not only Nature, but community as well. He includes not just the 'how', but the 'what' and the 'why' as well, so that you can move on and apply the instructions and advice as you grow. There's also links, etc., if you want to go deeper into topics, or get connected.
His writing is super easy to read and the layout of the book is essentially fun. I just want to keep reading, and that's saying something for me because it's not fiction lol!
An easy 5 stars for me.
Costa joins practical, simple-to-apply advice with the human side of living in an age largely separated from not only Nature, but community as well. He includes not just the 'how', but the 'what' and the 'why' as well, so that you can move on and apply the instructions and advice as you grow. There's also links, etc., if you want to go deeper into topics, or get connected.
His writing is super easy to read and the layout of the book is essentially fun. I just want to keep reading, and that's saying something for me because it's not fiction lol!
An easy 5 stars for me.
January 25, 2022
Slightly betwixt and between book - not a huge amount of practical info (though some of the suggested website links are good), but at the same time an 'almost there' feel about the rhetorical flourishes - you almost get the feeling like he wanted to write a more 'grown up' manifesto about sustainability and the environment (a la Wendell Berry) but someone in marketing told him to keep it middlebrow (fair enough given he fronts the most popular gardening show in the country). Which is fine, as he does middlebrow in a pretty inspiring way. I think he has writerly / rhetorical potential to unleash at length at some point though - perhaps in a book that's less illustrated / cartoony.
October 29, 2023
What a lovely, enthusiastic and inspiring book!
It got me in the first few pages and it's hard to not feel inspired and want to run outside and try many of the ideas in your own backyard. Many topics are covered from chickens, composting, bees, growing many edibles and pollinator attracting plants, the list goes on. Beautifully illustrated, never boring and if every household did some of the things in this book the planet would be far better off!
What a lovely, inspiring person Costa is and highly recommend this book to any parent, gardener or earth carer.
It got me in the first few pages and it's hard to not feel inspired and want to run outside and try many of the ideas in your own backyard. Many topics are covered from chickens, composting, bees, growing many edibles and pollinator attracting plants, the list goes on. Beautifully illustrated, never boring and if every household did some of the things in this book the planet would be far better off!
What a lovely, inspiring person Costa is and highly recommend this book to any parent, gardener or earth carer.
December 27, 2024
A joyfully all encompassing tour of gardening know how and philosophy. A great introduction to newly enthusiastic gardeners, and also a reminder to more experienced gardeners that you actually know quite a bit about the topic already.
December 4, 2023
Good as, lots of pictures which is kinda fun
August 27, 2024
Super inspiring guy!! Loved this book from the library so much, I bought my own copy!
September 13, 2024
Thanks for an inspiring and motivating read, Costa. Your positivity shone through every page and is something that I really would love to replicate in my daily life.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews