The Art and Craft of Tea: An Enthusiast's Guide to Selecting, Brewing, and Serving Exquisite Tea

An incredible all encompassing review of the ancient history of tea, it's origins and cultivations throughout past centuries. How it has affected cultures throughout the world and how Americans have lost the essence and enjoyment of really good tea in their fast paced lives. Slow down, relax with a hot cup of Joseph Wesley's complex black tea (#5 being my favorite) and enjoy this remarkable book with it's accompaning beautiful photographs which bring the subject matter to life.I also enjoy having a cocktail with friends and family. What I especially liked about this book was the imaginative way in which the author challenged some of Detroit's noted bartenders to combine his finest teas with alcohol to create original tea cocktails. Who knew I could enjoy both together! I can't wait to try each tea cocktail featured in his book. I dare you to look at each of these cocktail's pictures without wanting to immediately try one. Better yet, if you happen to be in Detroit, run to each of these famous restaurants and bars and try the original.You may never travel to China or India, but you can enjoy and appreciate a little piece of their ancient cultures through Joseph Wesley's teas!

This is truly a wonderful book, and not just for tea enthusiasts! The Art and Craft of Tea will tell you everything you want to know about the history of tea, and has so much more to offer. You will learn the chemical and physical processes involved in creating the different types of tea (White, Black, Green, Oolong), and all of the different regions in China and India where great tea comes from. The photography is absolutely stunning, really adding to the text in a unique and interesting way. Don't miss out on the recipes and cocktails toward the back of the book, they all sound so delicious and I can't wait to try them. I also like how the author integrates markets and restaurants in his native Detroit into his book. He clearly is passionate about tea and tea culture, and wants us all to experience it with him.The author helps you understand everything that goes into your simple cup of tea, and you begin to appreciate that there's nothing simple about it! I strongly recommend The Art and Craft of Tea to anybody on your holiday shopping list.

I learned more than I expected about tea. Great information and recipes included. The pictures are great. Definitely a good reference book.

I just finished reading this interesting book. I hesitate calling it a reference book because it is so nicely written. I like the three part organization, the interesting information and the well-placed pictures. As the daughter of a long-time tea bag drinker I am learning to appreciate loose tea. As a retired language arts teacher I appreciate the format and clearly written information. I enjoy the third part with the pairings and cocktail suggestions. It was clever Joseph used local Detroit bars for new drink suggestions. It is a book I will share with family and friends and have handy to use as a reference and even conversation starter.

Awesome book! Easy to read, very detailed and informative. Photography also very nicely done. Totally agree with a previous review that stated that this book covers history, culture, sociology, and ... not to mention teaching how to create the perfect cup of tea! Also offers some very artistic contemporary recipes for those who want to explore the craft of tea further!!I’m sure this would make a lovely gift, and definitely a beautiful addition to a coffee / tea table! Enjoy!

Not quite what I expected as I was hoping for detailed tea tree growing, harvesting, and processing instructions.Disappointed that it barely mentions Japanese matcha tradition. Nonetheless, It is a nice addition to my living room bookshelf.

You will not be disappointed in this gorgeous and informative coffee table (or should it be tea table?) book.1) The book is beautiful to look at, the pictures and design are top-notch.2) You will learn so much! There's history, culture, sociology - something for everyone, and it is not boring at all. I found it truly interesting.3) This is the perfect gift for those hard-to-please people who have everything.I'd highly recommend it!

This book is beautiful in every way. The photography is wonderful. The script is informative and engaging. It feeds my love of tea and is relaxing to read. I have it displayed -it is a favorite.

I am studying to become a tea master this book has been a perfect addition to my, ever growing, library of tea books.

Great book written in an easily accesable language. It's so informative.

Book is very nice and clear...,a lovely book .....just four stars as it have two small dents on the spine where it's been dropped..

It's really enjoyable to read, I'm not an expert in the field therefore I don't feel like judging it thoroughly. It's a very nice book at any rate and perfect as a gift to any tea lover.

Arrived quickly from the seller. It was a gift and was appreciated by the recipient.