The Backyard Parables
Lessons on Gardening, and Life

Absolutely wonderful. While I enjoyed And I Shall Find Some Peace There, I really loved this one. Lots of thoughts on life and death and why we love what we love and do what we do, interspersed with practical advice about gardening and cooking and taking care of the birds who visit your yard and all......more

I have no shortage of how-to books and articles ripped from gardening magazine. While this book has a good healthy dose of practical how-to's, what brings it to five stars is the integration of the author's passion for gardening, and the witty, honest, engaging creativity she brings through her wri......more

I hate to give this two stars (only) because this woman is very knowledgeable and really is a good writer (technically speaking). It's just that for me, it was somewhat of a yawner.... descriptions just a bit TOO technical, too drawn out. Digressions were sometimes interesting, sometimes.... yawners......more

I will recommend this book, but mostly to avid gardeners who like a lot of "woo woo" tossed in for good measure. For those who read Margaret's blog, as I do, you will find much repetition - which allowed me to skim through this book pretty quickly. Looking for the meaning of life in the garden? Marg......more

Her joy and frustration with gardening and life in general are quite evident in her writing. This almost reads as if she is in the room visiting with you. Probably helps if you have been following her on her website. I think I liked Margaret's "And I Shall Have Some Peace There" better, but this is......more