As someone who's recently caught the apple-growing bug, this book has been my go-to guide. The first half dives deep into the fascinating history and origins of apples, which I found surprisingly captivating—who knew apples had such a rich backstory?

What really stands out are the beautiful watercolor illustrations. They add a lovely touch that makes flipping through the pages a joy. I often find myself browsing just to admire them.

The directory of varieties is comprehensive, though I did notice some gaps. Like one reviewer mentioned, some lesser-known varieties I've encountered aren't included. It would be great to see this section expanded in future editions.

One thing that surprised me was how useful I found the sections on pruning and pest control—information I didn't even know I needed until I started having issues in my own small orchard.

While it might not be the perfect resource for those looking specifically for pollination partners or disease resistance info, as an overall reference and celebration of apple diversity, it's hard to beat. The Kindle version has been particularly handy for quick searches while I'm out in the garden.

If you're like me and enjoy both practical gardening knowledge and fascinating historical tidbits about your favorite fruit, this book delivers on both counts. It's earned a permanent spot on my shelf—both the physical one and my digital library.