by WTN Staff

"The Story of Tea" authors Mary Lou and Robert J. Heiss have released a breast-pocket sized volume titled "The Tea Enthusiast's Handbook: A Guide to Enjoying the World's Best Teas."

Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Crown Publishing Group, produced the new 208-page book, which retails for $16.99.

It is divided into four chapters on tea purchasing, steeping, classes and storage. The tea classes chapter covers green, yellow, white, oolong, black and puer tea, giving for each one a brief history, descriptions of different styles, a gallery of common types, tips for purchasing and steeping and a cultural narrative on production.

In their introduction, the Heisses note that the book is informed by the many questions they've heard from people during their 35 years as tea retailers.

"We believe that learning as much as possible about tea and the process of artisan tea manufacture will heighten your enjoyment of each cup you steep," they write. "We hope you take delight in our journey through the vibrant world of tea."