"Reverence takes on a new meaning in this original memoir of an avid gardener walking the Camino de Santiago. Pilgrims have been making the journey across northern Spain for more than 1,000 years, testing—to varying degrees—their spirit, faith, and physical endurance. Lyndon Penner’s attention lies elsewhere. A renowned gardener and lover of literature, he revels in the plants, trees, and flowers that tell the history of the people and ecology of this distinct region of Spain. Brimming with wry observations—of nature, himself, and other pilgrims on the road—The Way of the Gardener reveals the beauty and the darkness of the human condition while underscoring the deeply fascinating nature of nature itself. This textured work makes for perfect armchair—or garden—reading. LYNDON PENNER grew up in Saskatchewan and comes from a long line of gardeners. He is a traveller, environmentalist, and lover of literature, and the author of several books, including Native Plants for the Short Season Yard. FAST FACTS • Penner combines nature writing and natural history with travel writing. • Most nature or adventure writing centers on the life-changing effect on the author, but Penner’s focus is instead on the plant life and the people he encounters along the way."-- Provided by publisher.