The Art of Tea and Friendship: Savoring the Fragrance of Time Together

Not quite what I was expecting. Let me say the book is full of beautiful pictures and nice poetic scenarios of various teas with friends. It does not have specific recipes or menus, which is what I was expecting.

I think this is a wonderful book to receive or to give to a friend. I did receive one as a gift and was so impressed with it that I gave it to my two best friends as retirement gifts. I pick the book up often just to browse through and it has a prominent place on the coffe table in the den.I would hope others enjoy it as much as I do! I also purchased The Art Of Tea And Friendship which I did not enjoy nearly as much.

I'm afraid the person who gave this book a low rating was expecting something else. This book is not a cookbook, though it does have a few tea recipes. This is just one of its many features. If you've ever sat to tea with loving friends or inhaled the steamy fragrance of tea heating on a stove, you'll have an idea of how soothing and peaceful this book is. Along with the beautiful paintings of tea settings, there are quotes, pretty short poems, and stories about friendship and getting together with loved ones. That is the point of this book: to celebrate spending time with friends, preferably over a delicious tea :) If you're ever over-stressed or simply want a lovely and cozy reminder of love and beauty, this book is the perfect one to sink into. A beautiful book in every way!

I thought this would be just another overly sentimental gift book, until I took the time to actually read it and appreciate the art. I could feel my stress melting away as I spent time looking at each page. I am making a list of friends who will be receiving this charming book for Christmas this year.