This book by Penelope Lively is a relatively short but topically wide-ranging survey of the common contemporary garden. Drawing on historical developments, cultural trends, socioeconomic possibilities, and the human relationships with natural plant-life that makes the rest of it all possible, she weaves an interesting path across the subject and makes the humble* garden come to life in a new, invigorating way. Her prose is agreeable enough, and I learnt quite a lot from this book, but didn't particularly feel too compelled to finish it, which is why I've been reading it on-and-off several months before finally completing it. A niche book to recommend, though if you're into gardens or gardening, and want to know more about the rich and storied context of the contemporary "yard", I reckon this would probably be a good place to start.
* Or not so humble in the cases where she's discussing the huge grounds of stately homes, etc. But you get the drift.
