Tales of the Tea Trade looks at the world of tea from a completely new perspective. Taking the reader on a fascinating journey directly into the lives of those who plant, pluck and process tea; going beyond the standard story of leaf to cup; this book offers readers a unique first-hand insight into the culture, ceremony, opportunities and threats surrounding an ancient art. Closer to home, Michelle and Rob Comins offer their perspectives on how Eastern tea rituals can find a place in our increasingly busy Western lives. Beyond this, the book explores the key ingredients that separate a 'good' from a 'great' tea, covers ethical sourcing and shows how readers can translate and recreate tea ceremonies at home. Loose leaf tea is increasingly available in supermarkets. Most people, however, are disconnected from the origins of tea and this leaves them ill-equipped to prepare and enjoy loose leaf tea properly at home, making it seem more complicated than it is. There is also increasing interest in mainstream media around tea for health focused primarily on the chemistry of tea alongside the benefits of mindful tea preparation central to Eastern tea culture. Chapters include A Trip Around the Tea World, the Tea Plant, Plucking, Processing and Time for Tea.

This book stands alone in addressing tea from multiple expert perspectives, from tea farmers to ceramicists. Through sharing the stories and insights others have shared with them Michelle and Rob Comins hope to connect the reader with the world of tea and excite them to think of and buy tea in much the same way they do coffee and fine wines, making loose leaf tea a simple, everyday pleasure.