by Robert K. Henderson
published by Chelsea Green Publishing Company
White River Junction, Vermont 2000,
ISBN: 1-890132-35-7
It is Thanksgiving here in Canada as I sit down to compose my review of Henderson's book. Samhain is 18 days away. Thanksgiving is the last harvest celebration before the New Yaer begins on November 1. It is a time to be thankful for the bounty that we have received. It is also a time to remember the millions who do not share in that bounty.
The Neighbourhood Forager is a powerful work. The author acknowledges the early work of foraging pioneer Euell Gibbons as he outlines foraging's history. Gibbons brought foraging into the mainstream for a brief period. Drawing on this rich tradition, Henderson provides us with a tool that if used properly takes the reader a long way down the road to food security. It is anot an easy journey. There is much to learn but the author gives us a solid foudnation upon which to build the skills we need to gather dinner while taking a walk in our community.
This well written reference work not only helps you to discover food sources that you had never previously considered, but shows you how to preserve them as well. The recipes that accompany each section help the reader uncover ways to serve and enjoy the harvest.
Chapter Two; Ever Eat A Pine Tree? The resinous herbs:, gives a new insight into to the Christmas tree. We don't usually think of its food possibilities when out shopping for or cutting down a tree for our Christmas celebration. Nor do we think about the Vitamin C content of the evergreen we are decorating, yet evergreens are high in this vital nutrient.
This is a must have book, if you are committed to your family's food security, not only will you increase the diversity of dishes that appear on your dinner table, you will also decrease the dollars you have to spend to do so. Once you have mastered the skills that Henderson articulates, you will have taken a major step on the path towards self-reliance. You will be able to stroll around your neighbourhood and gather your supper at the same time.