Let me start by saying, this book is a gem for apple enthusiasts! The moment I flipped through its pages, I was greeted with stunning, mouth-watering photos of apples I'd never even heard of. It's like a visual feast for anyone who appreciates the diversity of this fruit.

The book excels in detailing each apple's unique characteristics—flavor profiles, disease resistance, and even quirky growing habits. I particularly loved the stories behind each variety; it added a personal touch that made me feel connected to the history of these apples. For instance, discovering that some apples have hints of blueberry or pomegranate was mind-blowing!

However, it’s not without its flaws. The exclusion of well-known varieties like Red Delicious, Fuji, and Gala felt odd. If you're looking for a comprehensive guide to all apples, this might leave you wanting more. But as the title suggests, it’s strictly North American varieties.

Another minor gripe: the author’s bias against modern apples is palpable. While he makes compelling arguments for heirlooms, his dismissal of newer varieties feels unbalanced. That said, his passion for heritage apples is infectious, and it’s hard not to appreciate his dedication.

Practicality-wise, this book has been my go-to for farmer’s market trips. It’s helped me identify rare finds like the Arkansas Black (which had puzzled me for years!). But fair warning: if you're planning an orchard, this book might overwhelm you with choices—I ended up adding more apples to my wishlist than I could handle!

Overall? A must-have for apple lovers, gardeners, or anyone curious about fruit diversity. Just don’t expect it to cover every apple under the sun.