Page 34 - ALG Issue 2 2025

BOOK REVIEWS
BOOK REVIEWS:
Growing Inspiration for Every Gardener
This month, we dive into four fantastic books that inspire
gardeners of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're just
starting or looking to deepen your knowledge, these titles
offer insights into the joy of growing your own.
Living with the Earth: Volume 3 – Creating a
Microfarm: A Manual for Market Gardeners
by Perrine and Charles Hervé-Gruyer
Living with the Earth Volume 3 is a
comprehensive and beautifully illustrated
guide aimed at those wanting to
create a profitable, productive, and
nature-friendly small farm or market
garden. It dives into the specifics of
establishing a successful microfarm, with
a focus on ecological sustainability and
permaculture principles.
Key topics covered include:
•
Plant propagation and seed saving
•
Increasing biodiversity for garden health
•
Incorporating animals into farm systems
•
Small-scale hay and grain production
•
A thorough list of essential tools and
their care
•
Design steps and examples for both
rural and urban microfarms
•
The importance of investing in people
and the human element of farm
enterprises
Authors Perrine and Charles
Hervé-Gruyer draw from their
experience managing a microfarm in
Normandy, where they blend sustainable
farming with rewilding. Their expertise
makes this book invaluable for farmers,
horticulturists, and permaculturists. With
backgrounds in law, psychotherapy, and
education, they offer a well-rounded
perspective, combining ecological
sensitivity with practical business insight.
34 | Issue 2 2025 | Allotment and Leisure Gardener