After water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world. Tea is far more than something to quench the thirstit is a potent elixir that protects from disease, settles the nerves, inspires the spirit and invigorates the mind. Drinking tea provides comfort, a time for reflection, and a starting point for conversation. The perfect gift for a tea lover, this engaging collection of essays from classic and contemporary tea writers will set an appropriately contemplative tone as readers relax with a steaming cup of their favourite tea.