Before there was foraging, there was the Vicomte de Mauduit…. First published in 1940, this book is a thoroughly lovely little reprint, pre-dating by decades a current trend. Without photographs, quaint illustrations alone help to evoke a sense of ‘simpler times’ and show how bounteous the countryside can be. A great stand-alone read, ‘They Can’t Ration These’ truly comes into its own when used as the handbook for a country ramble with a big basket! One for fans of self-sufficiency, the book is filled with recipes for foods from land, hedgerow, river and sea, not to mention information on producing one’s own alcohol, beauty products and natural remedies. It’s surprising how modern the majority of the prose feels, and how timely – the advice on growing veg is spot on. Both an amusing diversion and an invaluable guide to helping yourself!
Persephone Books specialises in finding and republishing neglected – but potentially classic – titles; its books are designed to be beautiful, with individually designed end-papers and clear, easy-to-read typefaces. The Vicomte de Mauduit was himself a fascinating character and a brief biography can be found at Persephone Books
They Can’t Ration These
by the Vicomte de Mauduit
Published by Persephone Books
RRP £14.00 amazon.co.uk/mauduit
