No One Gardens Alone: A Life of Elizabeth Lawrence Book

“This is the biography of Elizabeth Lawrence that we have all been waiting for. Even though Lawrence’s writings are legendary among Southern gardeners, her personal life has always been somewhat elusive. Wilson deftly weaves together Lawrence’s passions—her gardens, family circle, cherished friendships, and even her religious beliefs—in a compelling narrative.” —Judith B. Tankard, Landscape Institute, Harvard University

“Reading for a winter’s night for those, like Lawrence, who ponder why we garden.” —Diane Heilenman, Gannett News Service

“Lawrence’s life is celebrated with joy, reverence, and clarity in this captivating biography of the quintessential horticulturalist whose columns and books about her private Southern garden inspired gardeners throughout the country. Wilson vibrantly traces Lawrence’s developments from a shy, devoted daughter to a pioneering landscape architect and prolific garden writer.” —Carol Haggas, Booklist

“A perceptive biography of one of the country’s great gardeners and gardening writers. Sensitive and luminously written.” —Kirkus Reviews

“How can anyone resist reading this life, well-illustrated by photographs, of this small, beautiful woman?” —Janet Lembke, Raleigh News & Observer

Publishers Weekly

Gardening seems a solitary endeavor, perfect for those who like to be alone with nature without leaving their own yard. But this biography of renowned Southern gardening expert Lawrence tells of a time when getting your hands on an Algerian iris was not as easy as opening a nursery catalogue. Lawrence (1904 1985), author of A Southern Garden, Two Gardeners and numerous articles in House & Garden magazine and the Charlotte Observer, spent her life collecting different bulbs and clippings from the "friendly society" of gardeners across the country. Her love for gardens stretched beyond her own, and she often incorporated tips and accomplishments from the giant, informal association of green thumbs in her columns. According to Lawrence, "Gardening, reading about gardening, and writing about gardening are all one. No one can garden alone." Admired by writers such as Joseph Mitchell and Eudora Welty, Lawrence's writing was often about people and philosophy as well as planting. North Carolina writer Wilson's account is clear and unembellished, and her work provides a complete portrait of an independent, private and multifaceted woman. Photos. (Oct.) Forecast: With a national publicity campaign, ads in Carolina Gardener and events throughout the South, this biography of a legendary female gardener could gain traction among women green thumbs. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.