Provides the history of this orchid bean used in such products as candy, ice cream, soft drinks, medicines, and chocolate. This book discusses the vanilla bean's journey from its discovery by the ancient civilisations of Mexico, to Europe where its flavourful secrets remained a mystery to Europeans even 300 years after they first encountered it.

This book is suitable for readers of ages 8-14. Discover the rich history of this orchid bean used in such products as candy, ice cream, soft drinks, medicines, and yes, even chocolate! Follow the vanilla bean's journey from its discovery by the ancient civilisations of Mexico, to Europe where its flavourful secrets remained a mystery to Europeans even 300 years after they first encountered it.

What is vanilla?
Vanilla Lands
Ancient Vanilla
Conquering Vanilla
Crossing an Ocean
Vanilla Colonies
Growing Vanilla
Green Gold
Vanilla Tahitensis
A Great Decline
Flavouring the World
Threatening a Bean
Index and Glossary.