Ali Francis | The Curious Lives of Vegetables

Join us for a fun, food-filled an evening of food, fun and biodiversity!

The King’s English is delighted to welcome local food journalist and pastry chef, Ali Francis to the bookshop to celebrate the release of her new book, The Curious Lives of Vegetables An Artful Exploration of the Wonderful World of Edible Plants, Their History, and Their Crucial Role in Our Future.

Join Ali in conversation with Claire Carusillo, co-owner of Midway’s new Storyboard Books & Skate and author of the debut novel . Together they’ll discuss research, storytelling, and the unexpected places great tales begin.

Along the way, enjoy seasonal treats by Lady Flour and botanical cocktails inspired by the book. Take home a vegetal bouquet by Flowers for Annie and a blind date with a seed packet.

Whether you’re a gardener, cook, art lover, or just here for the drinks and snacks, this promises to be a delicious celebration of vegetables in all their beautiful, bizarre glory.

Select from two ticketed options to attend:

1. $5 and all proceeds go directly to our partner non-profit, Brain Food Book.

2. $30 and includes a copy of The Curious Lives of Vegetables

Copies of the book will be available to purchase at the event. You may also pre-order your signed copy of the books to be picked up at the event by either calling the store at 801-484-9100 or ordering online. If you cannot make this event, signed copies may be ordered from our website. Please specify in the comments if you would like your copy personalized.

Places in the signing line are reserved for those who purchase a copy from The King’'s English.

About the book:

Discover the secret lives of vegetables that have shaped our world, brought to life through artist Adriana Picker’s hauntingly beautiful botanical illustrations.

From tomatoes named after civil rights activists to beans rescued from war zones, The Curious Lives of Vegetables introduces you to a cast of unsung plants with remarkable backstories. Each surreal illustration is paired with an essay exploring the history, science, politics, folklore, and cultural significance of each vegetable—revealing how these seemingly ordinary foods have transformed civilizations, preserved traditions, and continue to shape our future.

More than a visual feast, this is an invitation to see carrots, onions, broccoli, and dozens of other plants with fresh wonder. Perfect for gardeners, food lovers, botany enthusiasts, and anyone drawn to the intersection of art and nature.