A good book in one hand and a flavourful cup of tea in the other. Sounds great, doesn’t it? You may prefer to read your favourite novels with your daily brew. Same with us. However we also recommend throwing in some great books on the evolution of tea. There is nothing better than expanding your knowledge on tea while you sip on your most loved brews. These are a five of my favourite tea books that I recommend you pick up with your next cup of tea.
‘The book of tea’ by Okakura Kakuzo, is one of the great tea classics. It was first printed in 1906 and explains how tea fits into Japanese culture. He discusses interesting topics such as Zen and Taoism. Kakuzo also reflects on the values that were learnt from tea, which included peace treaties. The book ends with an explanation of the contribution tea masters played towards making tea a major art form in Japan.
‘Tea: History, terroirs, varieties’ by Kevin Gascoyne, Francois Marchand and Jasmin Desharnais is an elegant and colourful book on tea. The tasting notes and content on non-herbal teas is spot on. The book follows the authors as they travel around the world sourcing the best teas to take back to their tea house in Montreal. The photographs of the quality teas provide great visuals of their experience from India, China, Nepal, Vietnam, East Africa, Japan, Taiwan and Sri Lanka.
‘Ultimate tea lover’s treasury’, by James Norwood Pratt is a great read. Pratt’s passion for tea truly brings the book alive. He has researched the history of tea thoroughly and this is evident in the way he presents his findings. This book will allow you to become familiar with the various kinds of tea and the best sources for them.
‘The story of tea: a cultural history and drinking guide’, by Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss is an award winning classic. It’s virtually a tea encyclopedia for anyone who would like to become an expert in the popular brew. Tasting, brewing, production and tea territories are covered in fine detail. The health benefits and recipes are further highlights of this book.
‘The tea book’ by Linda Gaylard is an enlightening book on tea. It was written just 3 years back so it is very update on many subjects regarding the world’s favourite drink. The book covers herbal teas in detail. The steeping notes and versatile recipes are also very interesting, which you would surely want to experiment with.
These five books will keep you engrossed for hours. If reading is not your thing, then you should try our teatime colouring book which also makes a great gift for any tea lover.
Indeed, the perfect setting for a good relaxing Sunday is a good book in one hand and a flavourful cup of tea in the other. Thanks for sharing this list of books on the evolution of tea; I am sure they will make really interesting reading.