In a fantastical world of trees, mutilation is the political issue of the day. The Orchardman's trees, or Oats, band together to bring their influence to bear on the radical decisions of the Orchard council. Recruiting a once great Oat, the culture warriors fight through attacks, lies and intrigue to exert their influence. In the process the reader is confronted with the dangers, compromises and travails of cultural engagement. The Orchard has been described as a quirky combination of Tolkien's Ents and Niebuhr's Christ and Culture. It will make you laugh and it will make you think.