Preserving Our Roots

"In Louisiana, our roots run deep, both in our ancestry and our gardens. Memories are sown in the garden patch. Amazing how a tiny seed not only nurtures our soul but preserves our heritage. Thanks be to God for a man like John Coykendall, who keeps the seeds of hope alive--in the garden."--Chef John D. Folse, author of The Encyclopedia of Cajun & Creole Cuisine"John Coykendall fiercely defends the roots of what makes us human by restoring authentic flavors to our communal table. Drawing on a lifetime of research and observation, he warns of our threatened biodiversity by telling the stories of a fading generation and the simple seeds that provided nourishment and a taste of home."--Poppy Tooker, host of Louisiana Eats! "Preserving Our Roots explores the meanings of lives in which one grows one's own food, saves one's own seed, and shares meals with one's family and neighbors. Coykendall and Melton have captured it all--the seed lore, the recipes, the tales--and adorned them with Coykendall's evocative drawings."--David S. Shields, author of Southern Provisions: The Creation and Revival of a Cuisine