We see heathlands today as very poor areas left for wildlife and public recreation but in the past they were worked as a renewable resource and a very valuable one at that. Here then is the story of just how our ancestors did that. If you live in a red brick Victorian home you are indebted to the Gorse. If you are wearing woollen cloth you are indebted to the Broom. Perhaps you'd rather know how to sweep a chimney or clean a well. There's a multitude of topics in this book, from the execution of Archbishop Cranmer, to the Great Fire of London, and a gentle walk on the common among scented yellow blooms, Dartford Warblers and Yellowhammers.