Utopia- a definition - an imagined place or state of things in which everything is perfect.

Yolanda Zappaterra takes us on a journey around the world to visually explore some of the most astoundingly beautiful and places of tranquility.

Each garden is accompanied with background information often linked to its creation/creator, structure and purpose but ultimately taps into how these gardens bring calm and enchantment through religion or appreciation / an inner calling of the natural environment which many are seeking in technologically influenced lives and when the human race is becoming more and more detached from nature/plants/water and peace.

The book visits garden from North America to Asia to Europe and Africa..... the photography is enchanting making you just want to head ut the door to immerse yourselves in these paradises.

Yes, it could be a coffee table book but this also a meditative book - pulling you into the calm and sensory experience of each garden. Beautiful, moving and a book to return to just to pause and reflect - ideally pulling you out into the local natural world to discover your own personal utopia.

Forty sacred gardens across the globe are captured in stunning photos and informative text. Now, I want to visit each one, as will readers from around the world, whether gardeners nor not. Would make a spectacular gift for travelers and those keen on seeing examples of magnificent gardens. Highly recommended!

One of the most beautiful books I've read.
The photography is phenomenal - it captures the title beautifully.
You can use it as a travel inspiration or if you'd just like to look at something pretty.
I'll definitely buy this in future and read it again!

The photographs of the world's best gardens are magnificent and inviting. The list is very well curated. It was a fantastic visual treat. It's a great book to possess. I'd highly recommend this for everyone who loves nature.

As an ardent lover of gardens and botanics, I had to read this book.
As also someone whose research interests include utopianism, I was eager to find out about more earthly beauties.
A wide range of gardens across the world are included with great selection of photos (I imagine they will look great in print) and informative text.
I must say I am not interested in the religious aspect of these gardens, but rather how they are good for the communities and people’s well-being.
It was lovely to see some of my favourite places in this book as well as many new ones I have not visited or was not aware they existed.
I will revisit this book on dark winter days and on warm days to wind down.

What a beautiful book!! It had the most gorgeous illustrations, and just all of the information given about each place was superb. Wonderfully done!

Earthly Utopias: Sacred Gardens of the World by Yolanda Zappaterra

The Gardens are absolutely spectacular, so beautiful and serene. The photography make the gardens pop out at you with brilliant colors and shapes.

Reading the history of these gardens was very interesting and informative. Excellent!

Thank NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.