This is a small book, a collection of essays almost, but absolutely packed full of practical information for the gardener. GST's easy style makes it as usual, a compelling read. His writing on design and plants is. classic, and doesn't date by being faddish or 'fashionable'. He concentrates on how you can enjoy your garden (hence the theme of garden seats) through design and planting using examples from his experience and well-known gardens, Actually this is the only area I feel it falls down slightly. Whether by accident or design, his association with the National Trust, means that their gardens are the ones used as examples. Generally this is sufficient, but there are some gaps e.g in the chapter of rhododendrons. ( )