Review by Nicole Vosper

For all fruit tree enthusiasts, people involved in Transition Towns or even just cider lovers, this book is a must. The Community Orchards Handbook is a treasure trove of practical advice, anecdotes and case studies written by the founder-directors of Common Ground, who have been championing the idea of community owned and used orchards since the early 1990s.

The book introduces the current and historical cultural and ecological landscape of orchards. It is full to the brim with useful information for anyone who wants to start a community orchard, save a threatened one or make the most of the harvest as a community.

In between advice on legal structures, surveys and planning are inspiring stories of successful projects, such as when trees have brought strangers together to celebrate Apple Day.

It is likely that anyone reading this book will be inspired to go out and plant an orchard in their village or town, armed with everything they need to do so.