The Rarest Fruit

Description

NEW YORK TIMES 100 NOTABLE BOOK OF 2025・BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR – Washington Independent Review of Books

“A gorgeous novel.”–New York Times

Based on a true story, The Rarest Fruit is a captivating tale of resilience, discovery, and the secret history of a beloved flavor.

Born into slavery, orphaned at an early age, and raised by a passionate botanist on Réunion Island, Edmond Albius will defy the expectations of his time and, with his extraordinary natural talent for botany, revolutionize global culinary culture by discovering the secret life of vanilla orchids.

A novel of 19-century adventure, perseverance, a book at the intersection of science, exploration, and cuisine, The Rarest Fruit brings to light the contributions of a Black botanical innovator, who, during a time of colonial exploitation and against all odds, changed food culture forever. It is both a poignant tribute to the unsung heroes of history and a vivid portrayal of intertwined destinies shaped by a single discovery.

“The book is that rare find: a revealing, history-infused novel that spills its tale with the eager breathlessness, wry commentary, and frank truths of a close friend… exquisite.”–Christian Science Monitor

Binding Type: Hardcover
Contributors: Gaëlle Bélem,Hildegarde Serle (Translator)
Published: 06/17/2025
Publisher: Europa Editions
ISBN: 9798889660996
Pages: 192
Weight: 0.71lbs
Size: 0.90″ H x 8.30″ L x 5.20″ W

About the Author
Bélem, Gaëlle: –

Gaëlle Bélem was born in Saint-Benoît, Réunion. Her English-language debut, There’s a Monster Behind the Door, was long-listed for the 2025 International Booker Prize. The Rarest Fruit is her American debut.

Serle, Hildegarde: –

For Europa Editions, Hildegarde Serle has translated the best-selling Mirror Visitor series by Christelle Dabos and Valérie Perrin’s Fresh Water for Flowers. She lives in London.