“From the Heart of Europe to the Wonders of Canada” relates the life journey of Erika Gaertner from her childhood days (1920s) in what is now the Czech Republic and the Heart of Europe to her botanical pursuits of the 21st century in retirement! Along, the way, she relates stories from her education in botany at the Ontario Agricultural College (Guelph's OAC) and Cornell University, her family life in the Forests of Petawawa, and her big city experiences in Montreal. Erika's recollections will likely fascinate those interested in memoirs, history, botany, and international travel. Her previous books, Harvest without Planting (1967) and Reap without Sowing (1995) documented how a walk in the woods can be more than just a pleasant outing, it can also be an adventure in dining! Produced in collaboration with her son Steven Fraser, From the Heart of Europe to the Wonders of Canada is Erika's third and most ambitious book. Erika's personal recollections are complemented by more than 300 photos and maps drawn from her personal archives.
