About me - Shanna Smith

 As an enthusiastic tea connoisseur and educator, my connection to tea extends beyond its flavors and brewing techniques. It embodies a journey into the cultural, historical, and philosophical dimensions of this ancient beverage. This exploration has been deeply influenced by several pivotal texts, which have enriched my understanding and appreciation of tea.

In "The Book of Tea" by Okakura Kakuzō, I discovered an insightful exploration of tea's philosophical and aesthetic facets, especially in the Japanese context. This book revealed tea as more than a beverage: it's an art form, a spiritual journey, and a symbol of culture. It helped me appreciate the intricacies of the Japanese tea ceremony and tea's influence on various aspects of life, including gardening and architecture. The book taught me to view tea as a conduit for mindfulness and cultural connection.

"The Story of Tea" and "The Tea Enthusiast’s Handbook" by Mary Lou Heiss and Robert J. Heiss significantly expanded my global perspective on tea. "The Story of Tea" guided me through tea’s rich history and the diverse rituals associated with it across cultures, while "The Tea Enthusiast’s Handbook" provided practical advice on choosing and appreciating various tea types. These books deepened my understanding of tea's complexities and its role in different cultures, enhancing my ability to discern and describe its nuances.

“Tea: History, Terroirs, Varieties” by Kevin Gascoyne and others has also been a fundamental resource in my tea education. This book explores the intricate interplay between tea’s history, its terroirs, and the multitude of varieties. It has been instrumental in understanding how the environment — soil, climate, and geography — influences the character of tea. This knowledge is vital in my role as an educator and expert, enabling me to share the unique stories behind each cup of tea.

Collectively, these texts have been more than mere information sources; they have accompanied me on my exploration of the tea world. They have fostered a comprehensive view of tea — as a product of nature, a cultural artifact, and a source of personal delight and reflection. My work, be it writing, podcasting, or presenting, aims to mirror the depth and diversity of the tea experience, drawing inspiration from the timeless insights within these pages.