Tea specialist Lisa Boalt Richardson shares her passion for this popular beverage by leading tea-lovers on a fact-filled, taste-as-you-go journey around the world. Each destination--represented by an array of colorful dishes--is exquisitely photographed by leading food photographer Lauren Rubinstein. Sojourners learn the history of tea and its influence on eight specific regions, including China, England, and Russia. From the many recipes Lisa has collected and Lauren has photographed, readers discover that a savoury honey scone is perfect with dark Kenyan tea and a rich almond cookie called a ghoriba tastes great with a glass of sweet Moroccan tea. And every tea party planner will appreciate the helpful tips to create fun and tasty teas for their family and friends. Travel the globe with Lisa, feast your eyes on Lauren's beautiful photos of mouth-watering treats, and share a cup of tea in a foreign tradition--all from the comfort of home!

Tea, a beverage that has been cherished and celebrated across cultures and centuries, has played a crucial role in shaping our world. From its humble beginnings in ancient China to its current status as a global phenomenon, tea has been a symbol of hospitality, a catalyst for social interaction, and a subject of artistic inspiration. It is more than just a drink; it is a way of life. In "The World in a Teacup," Nancy Rosen delves into the depths of this fascinating beverage, uncovering its rich history, cultural significance, and the intricate processes behind its production. In my own travels, I have witnessed firsthand the power of tea to bring people together. Whether it is a Japanese tea ceremony, a British afternoon tea, or a simple cup shared with a friend, tea has a way of fostering connection and creating a sense of belonging. It is a common thread that weaves through the fabric of our lives, and it is a pleasure to see this reflected in the pages of this book. Jones approaches the subject with a passion and a curiosity that is infectious. Her meticulous research and attention to detail are evident in every chapter, from the history of tea's discovery to the development of different tea varieties, the evolution of tea-making methods, and the impact of tea on global trade and politics. She also explores the role of tea in traditional medicine, the art of tea and food pairing, and the world of tea accessories. What sets this book apart is not just the breadth of topics covered, but the depth of insight that Jones brings to each one. She has a unique ability to take a familiar subject and shed new light on it, revealing layers of meaning and connection that are often overlooked. For example, in the chapter on tea and health, she goes beyond the well-known benefits of antioxidants and explores the role of tea in traditional medicine and its potential to support our well-being in a holistic way.

A stunning picture book that addresses life’s big journeys with hope, beauty, and reassurance School Library Journal [STARRED REVIEW!] “[A] moving, allegorical tale… inspiring reflection and empathy” Kirkus Reviews [STARRED REVIEW!] “A potent discussion starter… Enchanting, beautiful, and full of hope. “ Booklist [STARRED REVIEW!] “A lyrical tale of leaving home and finding a new one…Thought-provoking and arrestingly beautiful.” A boy must leave his home and find another. He brings with him a teacup full of earth from the place where he grew up, and sets off to sea. Some days, the journey is peaceful, and the skies are cloudless and bright. Some days, storms threaten to overturn his boat. And some days, the smallest amount of hope grows into something glorious. At last, the boy finds land, but it doesn't feel complete . . . until another traveler joins him, bearing the seed to build a new home. With lyrical text and gorgeous artwork, this poignant picture book is perfect for discussing all of life’s toughest challenges—a big move, a divorce, long-distance separation, or even the current refugee crisis—in a way that’s reassuring and inspiring for children and adults alike.

Look around you. The reflection of your face in a window tells you about the most shocking discovery in the history of science: that at its deepest level the world is orchestrated by chance; that ultimately, things happen for no reason at all. The iron in a spot of blood on your finger shows you that somewhere out in space there is a furnace at a temperature of 4.5 billion degrees. Static on your TV screen proclaims that the universe had a beginning. The bulb above your head emits light, and the light waves emerging from it are about five thousand times bigger than the atoms that spit them out—as paradoxical a thought as the idea of a matchbox swallowing a forty-ton truck. Marcus Chown takes familiar features of the everyday world and shows us, with breathtaking clarity, wit, and suspense, how they can be used to explain profound truths about the ultimate nature of reality. This is an essential cosmology primer for anyone curious about their surroundings and their place in the universe.

""I'm breathless! This journey through ""The Book of Gardens"" touched me so deeply. Day after day I was bathed by the words. I was comforted and confronted. I was overwhelmed by curiosity and calm, urgent intellectual stimulation and an emotional embrace. I am in awe of Phil's ability to lead me one step at a time as if he were holding my hand and pushing me at the same time.... I'm full to the brim, shaken up, like love, at a stand-still with gratitude."" - Maggie Merritt Nevada USA - ""The passion and beautifully crafted language unites the subjects of I-Ching, meditation, economy, and ecology. I emerged with renewed excitement for meditation, and a deepened understanding of the choices we face for humanity to survive on this world."" - Nicolas Albright Nelson Canada - A practical manual for decision making, The Book of Gardens includes a summary of how to use the I-Ching and learn Mindfulness Meditation. Amid the Changes upon us all today, what direction will you take?