Our Plot

A joy to read. Both humorous and humble, it's full of practical common sense and a belief in the values of community and sustainable living

Feed your fantasies further with some inspirational reading

This is a book to cherish or to give to a friend. It is definitely for anyone with dewy-eyed notions of cosy self-sufficiency - and should be compulsory reading for all first-time allotmenteers. It will be enjoyed by anyone that loves the practicalities of gardening and a good story.

The book is written in a friendly, chatty style; it is easy to imagine that you are sitting in Cleve's shed, listening to stories punctuated with Cleve's philosophies on life and gardening, over a steaming cup of tea - this is Cleve's personal, often humorous take on the subject... Their book has a real 'feel-good' factor; you will find it an absolute joy to read.

If you are looking for a practical book, if you fancy a window into what allotments are really all about, or if you want a beautifully written insight into one of life's finer people, then please buy it. It is very good indeed.

Packed with advice and inspiration.

His common-sense approach to allotment gardening. It's full of tips for successful growing, while Cleve happily admits past mistakes, offering what-not-to-do advice.

A strong sense of community emerges as the dominant theme of Cleve's book. Yes, it has plenty of information on how to growthe usual allotment crops. But the most engaging thing about it is the way it celebrates the allotment spirit: tolerance (if possible), humour and a willingness to help out when fellow plot holders are hard-pushed.

A unique and lovely book, as much memoir, rallying call and recipe book as gardening manual, in which frustration and failures, frankly declared, feature alongside practical and encouraging advice on how to enrich our lives by the 'simple art of growing food'. A love of plants and a depth of knowledge of their behaviour and habits makes this a joyful read, not just for food growers but for all gardeners.

What a delight this book is, describing life and food on a sociable allotment close to Hampton Court. The fact that it's owned by Cleve West (Gold Medal designer of many Chelsea Flower show gardens) doesn't distract for Cleve is a practical man full of advice and pragmatism. Forget grand gardens - this is real life and entertainment.

This is a touching, heart-warming book which managed to make me, as a novice plot holder feel better about my first year's attempts but also inspired me to keep going. Cleve has captured everything that is special about allotments as he says 'being there is as important as what ends up on the plate'. This is a must read.

Will help prospective allotment holders prepare for the hard work that's in store when you take on a plot, but also give them a tast of the rewards.

This is how allotments should be in garden heaven. No sniping comments, threats of eviction or sneering at bendy carrots. Cleve and his wife tell of their real life experiences on a site where people bond, grow and enjoy. Fascinating, useful and uplifting.

"I would highly recommend Our Plot and certainly give it to friends who were thinking of starting an allotment, as even though it is practical, it also shows how wonderful an allotment is - not only from the pleasure of growing your own, but also from the diversity of people one meets and the friendships one makes." Jekka McVicar, author of Jekka's Herb Cookbook

"This book is, in every way, utterly delightful." James Alexander-Sinclair, garden designer and writer

A personal account by a wonderful gardener all about his community of allotmenteers.

Relaxed account of life and camaraderie on his west London allotment, supported by recipes, practical tips for growing fruit and vegetables, plus sound advice.

A very personal book full of warmth about people, food and allotments, which even brought on a few tears.

A visual feast as well as a mouth-watering read.

There have been many books about allotment gardening lately, some of them practical guides, others humorous. But Cleve West's is the most personable and best designed yet.

If you want some no-nonsense allotment inspiration from one who knows, six times Chelsea gold medal winner and allotment holder Cleve West has produced his first book which is full of practical tips. West admits his mistakes so there's plenty of advice of the what-not-to-do variety, as well as brilliant tips for successful growing - and delicious cooking - of all the best fruit and veg.

The tales of triumphs, setbacks and backaches will inspire you to start hatching plans for new projects.

His love for allotmenteering and the family and friends who share his world leaps off the page in a lively mix of drawings, snapshots and solid gardening tips. It's a simple but alluring glimpse of the good life.