This is a book of outstandingly warm, quirky and personality-laden pictures by the photographer Nutan. The moods and themes of these images are developed in the texts by Fintan Vallely and Charlie Piggott into personalities, lives, community and nation through biography, interview, comment, poetry and song. The voices are those of musicians and singers who have helped shape the revival of traditional music since the 1950s, along with today's generation of talented, articulate and highly educated players. Nostalgia, nationalism, romanticism, virtuosity and communitas here meet art and quiet confidence in cultural meaning.

The word “meadow” conjures images of wide expanses of land, but a mini meadow — a kind of informal flower garden started with seed sown directly into the soil — can be any size; plus, it’s fun, easy to grow, and good for the planet. With as little as 50 square feet and for less than $20, gardeners can plant a colorful meadow that demands little in the way of space, mowing, or maintenance, uses less water than a traditional lawn, and provides habitat for pollinators — not to mention a natural exploration space for children. From choosing the right variety of seeds, preparing the soil, sowing evenly, and watering well, author Mike Lizotte guides readers through the process of successfully creating a miniature meadow that suits their climate, soil, and growing goals, whether planting to beautify a hellstrip, halt erosion, fill a boggy spot, or establish a nesting area for bees and butterflies. Mini Meadows offers gardeners of all levels the keys to creating, caring for, and reaping the rewards of thriving meadows through the seasons, year after year.