
Green Gold
Sarah Allaback and Monique F. Parsons
Anchored by the story of two exceptional trees that stood out among hundreds of rivals, Green Gold is a spirited and often surprising behind-the-scenes look at how dedicated avocado enthusiasts in Mexico and California developed an ideal fruit to sell to the world. Navigating the Depression, two world wars, Mexican revolutions, violent drug lords, drought, and disease, these pioneers were driven by the avocado’s potential to captivate the palates and hearts of consumers across the globe. Their efforts, inspired by the success of California citrus, launched today’s lucrative industry and helped the avocado win a place among such supermarket staples as oranges and bananas.
“Whether you’re a history buff or just enjoy a chip full of guacamole, you’ll be thoroughly captivated …Green Gold is a well researched, captivating story.”
— Rick Bayless, James Beard Award-winning chef, author, and restaurateur
About the authors
Sarah Allaback and Monique Parsons, friends since third grade, grew up in Carpinteria, California, where avocados were part of the landscape. Both graduated from Princeton University. Sarah is an author and historian specializing in architectural history and landscape preservation. Monique, a third-generation avocado farmer, is an award-winning journalist and independent radio producer for NPR.