Botanist Mabberley (emeritus, Univ. of Oxford; The Peter Crossing Collection) has a treat for readers who’ve ever wondered about the origins of the oranges they’ve eaten, the limes they used for drinks, or the lemons they squeezed on their fish. In five chapters, readers get a sweeping history of citrus. The book’s coverage spans from the ancient world through the Middle Ages, when citrus was used in herbal medicines, into an explanation about the importance of vitamin C, and data that indicates the rise in popularity of all citrus fruits in contemporary times. Readers also learn about different types of citrus and even criminal activity regulating the citrus industry and trade. VERDICT This highly recommended resource provides an eye-opening account of a major part of many readers’ daily diets. Foodies and food historians will appreciate Mabberley’s expert explanation of how citrus became so widely loved around the world. The sumptuous artwork is a feast for the eyes as well.