Pecan America

"Gifford brings the reader into orchards, processing centers, and festivals surrounding the pecan, illuminating some fo the rich stories behind this native tree and its growing agricultural industry."—New Mexico Historical Review

“In Pecan America, John Gifford takes an outwardly simple subject, the pecan, and reveals its historical richness, ecological significance, and cultural complexity. Pecan America is a delightful and informative journey into a beloved but at times misunderstood American food, and readers will be glad they accompanied Gifford on the adventure.”—Stephanie Anderson, author of One Size Fits None: A Farm Girl's Search for the Promise of Regenerative Agriculture

“If the thought of ancient midland groves that cheat the reaper of modernity electrifies you, then you’ll appreciate Gifford’s road trip into the heart of pecan country.”—George Frazier, author of The Last Wild Places of Kansas: Journeys into Hidden Landscapes

“Mark Kurlansky did it with books about cod and salt as did John McPhee in his classic immersion, Oranges. Now John Gifford has chosen to dramatically and vividly write the story of another single subject, an unlikely but fascinating cultural icon: the pecan. Gifford’s new book will be a compelling and illuminating read.”—Lee Gutkind, editor, Creative Nonfiction magazine

“John Gifford’s Pecan America is a passionate and authoritative look at the beloved tree and its nut that for generations has defined childhoods, neighborhoods, stretches of roadside, Christmas deliveries from down-the-street neighbors, and everyone’s favorite dessert at the nearby diner. In the deft hands of Gifford the pecan takes its rightful place among America’s great agricultural gifts. That it has demonstrable healing properties is an added bonus!”—Louisa McCune, executive director, Kirkpatrick Foundation