Their names are intriguing: Fakousia Akapnitiki, Kajari, and Killy Edible-Seeded. In her new book, Amy Goldman—passionate gardener, advocate for seed saving, plant breeding, and heirloom fruits and vegetables—introduces us to 125 glorious varieties of melon and watermelon from around the world. Most will be unfamiliar to readers. Their stories are as diverse as the melons themselves.
Created over the course of nine years, “The Melon“(September 17, $50) is both an information-packed resource and a visual delight. This definitive compendium on melon and watermelon reflects recent research findings and Goldman’s growth as a gardener since the publication in 2002 of her award-winning book, “Melons for the Passionate Grower”. Victor Schrager’s remarkable photographic portraits of every melon complement the engaging text. Goldman delves into each melon’s unique qualities and shares detailed descriptions including fruit quality and origins. Her unparalleled breadth of knowledge and sheer affection for her subject shine through on every page.
With close to 200 images, sections on picking and choosing melons and watermelons in the market, growing them in the garden, saving pure heirloom seeds, and a selection of recipes developed for this book by renowned cookbook author Mindy Fox, The Melon takes us on a memorable journey from seed to table.
Amy Goldman is a gardener, author, artist, and well-known advocate for seed saving, plant breeding, and heirloom fruits and vegetables. Her mission is to celebrate and catalogue the magnificent diversity of standard, open-pollinated varieties, and to promote their conservation. Melons are Goldman’s lifelong love and calling. This new book, The Melon, illustrated by Victor Schrager and many years in the making, is a comprehensive and definitive work that includes portraits in words and photographs of 125 extraordinary varieties, expert advice on cultivation and seed saving, and a generous selection of delicious melon recipes.
Victor Schrager for more than 30 years Victor Schrager has been a master of still-life photography. Schrager has been the principal photographer for three of Amy Goldman’s previous books on vegetables and fruits. He lives in upstate New York.