By Amanda L. Van Lanen

Roughly 70 percent of apples sold in American supermarkets today come from Washington State. In this enlightening book, Amanda L. Van Lanen traces the origins, evolution, and environmental consequences of the state’s apple industry, offering a comprehensive look at how Washington became the leading producer of America’s most popular fruit.

Washington’s success in producing apples was no happy accident of nature. Apples are not native to Washington, any more than potatoes are to Idaho or peaches to Georgia. In fact, Washington apple farmers were late to the game, lagging their eastern competitors. The author outlines the numerous challenges early Washington entrepreneurs faced and shows how, with crucial help from railroads, Washington farmers transformed themselves into “growers” who dominated the industry by the 1920s.

The apple industry continues to evolve in response to shifting consumer demands and accelerating climate change. Yet, through it all, the Washington apple has maintained its iconic status as Washington’s most valuable agricultural crop.

(286 pages)