“You’re holding this book because you love tea.” Introduction, A Little Tea Book
I’ll put the kettle on.
Those are the words that are spoken whenever an important discussion is “brewing.” Tea is the quiet confidante that stands close at hand to comfort, encourage, smooth away a difficult day at work. A cup of fragrant tea witnesses the many celebrations of friends and family – welcoming a newborn, planning a birthday, commemorating a wedding anniversary or graduation.
I’ll put the kettle is about sharing time without frivolous distractions. Or as Fyodor Dostoevsky wrote with eloquence: “I say let the world go to hell, but I should always have my tea.”
Is it possible to share tea virtually across the blogger miles?
My blogging friend, Liz of Leaping Life and Leaping Tracks answered the question when she sent me a message that she had been reading the exciting back story on Maria Popova’s Brainpickings about a marvelous new book by Sebastian Beckwith with Caroline Paul, “A Little Tea Book – All the essentials from Leaf to Cup.” Soon after, the book appeared in my mailbox, thanks to Liz.
“Tea, the most Popular beverage in the world after water, has brought nations to war, defined cultures, bankrupted coffers, and toppled kings. And yet in many ways this fragrantly comforting and storied brew remains elusive, even to its devotees.” A Little Tea Book
January in Canada is the time to revel in the warmth of a good book and a pot of tea. I have enjoyed reading “A Little Tea Book” these past few weeks. It lives up to its promise that it is not a workbook or encyclopedia, but rather a place to gain a new perspective on the beverage that many have come to feel, a trusty companion.
“Welcome, I’m happy you’re here. My life’s work has been teaching people about tea, and now I am honored to teach you.” Sebastian Beckwith
On The Road Book Club 
As a coffee drinking American, British historical dramas have informed me of tea’s importance. From afternoon tea to a friendly cuppa, nothing worthy ever happens without it. I especially enjoy all the desserts and sandwiches served with it 🙂
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So do I – those deserts and sandwiches are the best. They usually are in small bites, but they are delicious. And because they are so small, after all, surely one more, and another, and another would be fine. They are filling! The other British tradition that I enjoy is “cream tea” which is tea (of course) with a scone with jam and clotted cream. Thank you for sharing a cup of tea with me today. (I have a confession – its morning in Vancouver and I’m having a coffee – so I’m joining you for coffee)
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Such a delightful post. I am reminded of a little jingle about tea that we used to sing or say when we were young. There is nothing like a relaxing cup of tea before starting the evening sleep–so relaxing experience before “hitting the covers” like we used to say. Thank you for introducing the new book. It looks like a wonderful read.
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You would love this book. It allows readers to meander through the pages or focus on specific topics. And speaking of jingles, I always liked the thought by T.S. Eliot: “Time for you and time for me, And time yet for a hundred indecisions, and for a hundred visions and revisions, Before the taking of toast and tea.” Thank you for joining me for tea!
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I am raising my tea cup to you as I type. I am so pleased to be sharing this most essential and beloved ritual with you over the airwaves and the oceans. How well I remember our very first cup of tea together in the National Museum of Scotland and we haven’t looked back since! Sending much love and many hugs across to you, my dear friend. xxx
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I have those wonderful photos of our first meeting. Oh, what a grand adventure we have been on – and more coming. Life is the very, very best when shared with kindred spirits.
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Well said! Hugs 🤗 xxx
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