As someone who recently started planting an orchard, I was thrilled to discover 'The New Book of Apples.' It's been my go-to guide for selecting unique, heirloom varieties to diversify my farm. The detailed descriptions of over 2000 apple types have been incredibly helpful in making informed choices.

I particularly love the watercolor paintings throughout the book—they add a charming touch and make flipping through the pages a delight. The historical context provided in the first half is fascinating, though I do agree with other reviewers that the directory section could be more comprehensive.

One thing that stands out is the book's beautiful design and typesetting. It’s not just informative; it’s a visually appealing addition to my library. However, I did notice that some lesser-known varieties I’ve encountered aren’t included, which was a bit disappointing.

If you're looking for a deep dive into apple history and varieties, this book is fantastic. But if you need practical advice on pollinators or disease resistance, you might want to supplement it with other resources. Overall, it’s a valuable reference for anyone passionate about apples.