A classic in the literature of the garden, <i>Green Thoughts</i> is a beautifully written and highly original collection of seventy-two essays, alphabetically arranged, on topics ranging from “Annuals” and “Artichokes” to “Weeds” and “Wildflowers.” An amateur gardener for over thirty years, Eleanor Perényi draws upon her wide-ranging knowledge of gardening lore to create a delightful, witty blend of how-to advice, informed opinion, historical insight, and philosophical musing. There are entries in praise of earthworms and in protest of rock gardens, a treatise on the sexual politics of tending plants, and a paean to the salubrious effect of gardening (see “Longevity”). Twenty years after its initial publication, <i>Green Thoughts</i> remains as much a joy to read as ever. <br><br>This Modern Library edition is published with a new Introduction by Allen Lacy, former gardening columnist for <i>The Wall Street Journal</i> and <i>The New York Times</i> and the author of numerous gardening books.