This is the story of the bean, the staple food cultivated by humans for over 10,000 years. From the lentil to the soybean, every civilization on the planet has cultivated its own species of bean. The humble bean has always attracted attention - from Pythagoras' notion that the bean hosted a human soul to St. Jerome's indictment against bean-eating in convents (because they "tickle the genitals"), to current research into the deadly toxins contained in the most commonly eaten beans. Over time, the bean has been both scorned as "poor man's meat" and praised as health-giving, even patriotic. Attitudes to this most basic of foodstuffs have always revealed a great deal about a society. Featuring a new preface from author Ken Albala, Beans: A History takes the reader on a fascinating journey across cuisines and cultures.

From the tulip fields of Netherlands to your garden flower patch, tulips are loved the world over. Jane Eastoe's passion for gardening and Rachel Werne's spectacular photography combine to showcase these gorgeous bulbs and show that anyone can grow and enjoy tulips at home. Tulips have more than 3,000 variations and their diverse textures mean that they can work anywhere, from vases to garden plots, from romantic bouquets to wedding boutonnieres. Along with the fascinating history of the flowers, Tulips details more than 50 of the most beautiful varieties, detailing when they bloom, their size, and, of course, what they'll look like. From the raspberry swirl of Zurel and the petticoat-like frills of Weber's Parrot, to the crystal rim of the Mascotte and the flaming petals of the Fabio tulip, you'll discover a stunning range of specimens to grow, including historical and contemporary varieties. With engaging commentary on each bloom, easy-to-follow advice and glorious photography, this book will appeal to everyone who appreciates the majesty of the tulip.