The Accidental Seed Heroes

‘This is a fascinating insight into the world of breeding, growing and the preservation of endangered fruit, vegetables and cereals around the world. Adam takes us to far-flung places, and we are introduced to some remarkable people whose passion for their own local food culture champions traditional varieties while also breeding new ones. In his search for ‘deliciousness’ in the gardens and farms of tiny villages, it is possible to see how such underutilised indigenous produce can contribute to a more biologically diverse future in feeding us all. I loved this book and enjoyed the nice, short, easily digestible chapters, perfect for dipping into at your leisure – although I felt compelled to keep reading!’

Advolly Richmond, plant and garden historian; author of A Short History of Flowers

‘If you’re a fan of growing your own food or just curious about where your veggies come from, The Accidental Seed Heroes is a cracking read. Adam weaves together engaging stories about traditional farmers (the real unsung heroes) who’ve helped preserve the diversity of crops we often take for granted. It’s a reminder of how vital this diversity is, especially as we face the challenges of a changing climate.

‘What I love most is how it bridges the past and present. Alongside the tales of heritage farming, Adam highlights modern plant-breeding innovations that focus on sustainability and flavour, without relying on a cocktail of chemicals. It feels incredibly relevant for gardeners today, whether you’re pottering about in a small urban patch or tending an allotment like mine.

‘This isn’t just a book about seeds or food systems; it’s an inspiring nudge to get stuck into the joys of gardening while understanding the bigger picture. A proper gem for anyone keen to connect their love of growing with the wider world of growing.’

Rob Smith, author of Grow to Eat

‘Adam explores plant diversity in food production, past and present, and scrutinises future implications for food security. He skilfully distils a complex subject into clear, accessible concepts, travelling through countries and meeting scientists to untangle the political and commercial influences at play. Educational, inspiring and motivational, The Accidental Seed Heroes illustrates how, as individual gardeners, we have a role to play in fostering both local and global resilience in the food supply system.’

Sue Kent, TV presenter; author of Garden Notes

‘After reading Adam’s book, I won’t look at a handful of seed the same way again! A fascinating and enlightening read, beautifully told. The Accidental Seed Heroes delves into the history of breeding and how we ended up with seed superpowers dominating what we grow and eat. It then takes us on a journey of sustainability, resourcefulness, resilience and the expertise of the growers at the cutting edge. With everything that’s currently going on in the world politically and environmentally, this book feels particularly relevant.’

Joe Swift, garden designer; writer; presenter, BBC’s Gardener’s World

‘From the moment you turn the first page, Adam invites you on a spellbinding journey around the globe, offering a unique perspective on food security and the critical role of seed saving. The book takes readers from the arid plains of Rajasthan to the lush landscapes of Ethiopia, introducing the passionate and inspiring individuals working tirelessly to safeguard the future of our food supply through the preservation and cultivation of diverse plant varieties. 

‘The narrative is immersive, and Adam’s writing style imbues the scientific topic with a gentle, almost romantic air. If you’re someone who has never considered saving seeds before, Adam will undoubtedly change your perspective.

‘Overall, this book is a thought-provoking exploration that combines science, history and travel, leaving the reader with a renewed appreciation for the small yet powerful act of saving seeds. Whether you’re an avid gardener or simply someone concerned with the future of food, The Accidental Seed Heroes offers a captivating and enlightening journey into the heart of agricultural preservation.’ 

August Bernstein, head tutor, Raymond Blanc Gardening School

‘What a timely and fascinating book this is. Adam Alexander has created an extremely important work that adds to the library of not only plant breeders but all gardeners and farmers. In truth, everyone should seek a deeper understanding of the origins of the foods we eat and the challenges to be faced in the future, and this book perfectly serves that purpose.’

Craig LeHoullier, author of Epic Tomatoes; co-lead, Dwarf Tomato Project

‘In this delicious travelogue, you will encounter memorable varieties with engaging names like Big Gogozahare sweet pepper, Honest Ærling’s Genuine Eating Pea and Awesome Emma tomato, and hear gripping stories about how they originate. You’ll meet the dedicated, passionate, unforgettable people who create and tend them, discover unfamiliar crops, such as enset, khat and maslins, and dishes from them like boula porridge, and learn techniques of crop diversification handed down from indigenous cultures all over the world, over countless generations. Those interested in enriching their cuisine will draw inspiration from Adam’s journeys and discoveries. Those drawn to the seed arts (growing, saving, selecting, multiplying and breeding) will be fascinated by the variety of available techniques, from the ancient wisdom of indigenous cultures to the most modern genomics and how the complex interactions between these varied models are impacting our food supply.’ 

C.R. Lawn, founder, Fedco Seeds

‘This is a really enjoyable book that should appeal to anyone who eats. Adam Alexander does a great job of explaining the problems with our current food system and how it’s providing us with bland, identikit vegetables and cereals. But, more importantly, he introduces and celebrates people across the world who are stewarding and developing the seeds that could form the basis of a better, fairer and tastier way to eat for all of us.’  

Kate McEvoy, co-founder, Real Seeds

‘In this riveting book, Adam Alexander points to the glories, creativity, fun and failures of the world’s plant breeders. We meet thousands of seed Davids sidestepping the seed Goliaths. We salute scientists who believe seeds are public, not private, property. We go to highlands and lowlands in countless countries meeting the frontline seed savers, unsung heroes of diversity, on whom our future food depends. His erudition and excitement are palpable as he shares what they, we and he can grow and develop. This is a hymn to the joys of planting and developing seeds for the common good. You’ll look at seed packets differently after reading this book.’

Tim Lang, professor emeritus of food policy, City St George’s, University of London

‘There is something about popular science books that can enchant me, and this one certainly does. The mixture of quite complicated concepts and real-life experiences is captivating. It is wonderful to be shown by Adam the importance of seed, local varieties and some of my favourite vegetables (and grains), and to be taken on stories from across the world and his own back garden. A beautiful book telling an important story.’

Bruce Pearce, director of science, Garden Organic