Ben Cullen
Ben is a fourth generation gardener
He earned his diploma in agriculture at the University of Guelph Ridgetown campus, and a Bachelor of Commerce from Dalhousie in Halifax. Ben spent several years working in the food industry before travelling across Europe, Russia, Mongolia and China on his own, then joining his dad, Mark, in the business two years ago. Ben, like many millennials, has a passion for food gardening and the environment.. He is engaged to Sam and enjoys leisure time with dog Ruby when he is not gardening in hes 2,000 sq. ft. allotment garden in Guelph, Ontario.
Escape to Reality is Ben's first published book and likely not his last.
Mark Cullen
Mark has been broadcasting and writing about the gardening experience since the early 80's. He has written 23 books, including two biographies. Escape to Reality is Mark's 24th book. He says, "This is the most exciting book that I have ever written as it reflects the experience and passion for Canada's most popular outdoor leisure time activity of two generations, min and son Ben's".
In 2016 Mark was awarded the Order of Canada for "his connections with everyday Canadians through his gardening and environmental messages." He is the Volunteer Chair of the Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign.
Escape to Reality is Mark's second non-how-to book. Mark and Ben provide a well informed and deeply personal reflection on the state of gardening today, a look into their crystal ball and an explanation of why this is the most exciting time in the history of Canada to be a gardener.
Follow Mark at markcullen.com