From Grow Guides to Cookbooks: The Best Cannabis Books

Curling up with a book is a great way to expand one's knowledge, explore new ideas, and escape into different worlds. Books on cannabis are no exception. From memoirs to cookbooks, there's no shortage of literature on cannabis.

If you've ever been curious about cannabis, its various uses, and its intriguing history, you're in luck! We've rounded up 20 of the best books on cannabis that will educate, entertain, and enlighten you. Special shout-out to the Canadian authors on this list who have made significant contributions to the cannabis community.

Gardening for ganja

Marijuana Horticulture by Jorge Cervantes (George Van Patten): The industry bible with 1,000+ photos, updated for modern LED and hydroponic techniques. A great resource for anyone interested in growing cannabis, from beginners to experienced cultivators.

The Cannabis Grow Bible: The Definitive Guide to Growing Marijuana for Recreational and Medical Use by Greg Green: This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of cannabis cultivation, from basic techniques to advanced topics like strain creation. 

Marijuana Grower’s Handbook by Ed Rosenthal: Used as coursework at Oaksterdam University, this book is filled with tips, tricks, and techniques for growing high-quality cannabis. A must-read for any aspiring grower. 

Cannabis Breeding by James Loud: Explores genetic history and hybridization methods for creating custom strains. With a combination of science and practical breeding tips, this book is a great resource for those interested in the genetics behind cannabis. 

Beyond Buds by Ed Rosenthal: Another great read by Ed Rosenthal, this book focuses on different cannabis extracts, with safety tips for modern concentrate production. Learn about popular methods like rosin, tinctures, and hash. 

 

History & culture

🇨🇦 Catch a Fire: The Blaze and Bust of the Canadian Cannabis Industry by Ben Kaplan: A raucous deep dive into Canada’s $131-billion cannabis boom/bust, featuring Justin Trudeau’s legalization push, corporate greed, and stoner entrepreneurs. Called "sharply observed" by Michael Chabon.

🇨🇦 The Sacred Herb / The Devil’s Weed by Andrew Struthers: A witty dual-narrative blending B.C.’s cannabis history with laugh-out-loud tales of hypocrisy in prohibition-era Canada. The weaving of stories and historical facts makes this an entertaining and informative read.

The Cannabis Manifesto by Steve DeAngelo: In this comprehensive guide, industry leader Steve DeAngelo explores the history of cannabis prohibition and advocates for its legalization. Includes many personal anecdotes and scientific evidence to support the benefits of cannabis.

Higher: The Lore, Legends, and Legacy of Cannabis by Dan Michaels: Trace cannabis’s role across ancient and modern societies, from its spiritual significance in Hindu mythology to its influence on popular culture.

The Emperor Wears No Clothes by Jack Herer: A classic read that explores the history of cannabis prohibition and its potential uses as a sustainable resource. This book has been instrumental in shaping the modern cannabis movement.

Mr. Nice by Howard Marks: A smuggler’s memoir detailing global hashish trafficking, CIA dealings, and 43 aliases. Made into a movie starring Rhys Ifans, this is a thrilling and eye-opening read. The movie is a pretty faithful adaptation and worth watching.

 

Stoner satire

🇨🇦 Gone to Pot by Jennifer Craig: A Leacock Award-winning novel about a 60-something Nelson, B.C., widowed granny who turns basement weed grower. Combines aging angst with slapstick paranoia in pre-legalization Canada.

🇨🇦 Green Buds and Hash by Dana Larsen: A humorous cannabis-themed parody of Dr. Seuss's classic children's book "Green Eggs and Ham" featuring a character named Mister Stash who offers "green buds and hash" to a reluctant recipient.

How to Smoke Pot (Properly) by David Bienenstock: A witty guide to cannabis etiquette, consumption methods, and history, blending humour with practical advice. Vice columnist David Bienenstock's insider knowledge and punchy writing make this a must-read.

Stoned Beyond Belief by Action Bronson: The rapper’s irreverent memoir mixes recipes, workout tips, and cannabis-fueled anecdotes. Action Bronson's larger-than-life personality and love for food and weed make this a hilarious and entertaining read.

 

The art of edibles

Bong Appétit: Mastering the Art of Cooking with Weed: A Munchies-produced guide featuring infused recipes (e.g., cannabis olive oil, savoury dishes) and extraction science. Praised for balancing culinary creativity with practical tips.

Cannabis Cocktails, Mocktails & Tonics by Warren Bobrow: Offers recipes for cannabis-infused beverages, from CBD tonics to THC-spiked cocktails, ideal for social gatherings. Don't forget to enjoy responsibly!

Aunt Sandy’s Medical Marijuana Cookbook by Sandy Moriarty: Focuses on comfort-food classics like brownies and soups, tailored for therapeutic use. Aunt Sandy's humour and personal experiences make this cookbook a fun read.

Comprehensive guides

The Essential Cannabis Book by Rob Mejia: A primer on cannabis science, industry trends, and medical applications. Ideal for newcomers, and includes a helpful guide for evaluating cannabis products.

The Cannabis Encyclopedia by Jorge Cervantes: Covers cultivation, consumption, and legal landscapes. Praised for its 500+ colour photos and strain-specific guidance, this is an essential resource for any cannabis enthusiast.

A final puff

From recipes to funny anecdotes, books about cannabis are a great way to deepen our understanding and appreciation for what was once a controversial substance. While this list is entirely subjective and by no means exhaustive, it's a great starting point for those looking to explore the world of cannabis literature. Coffee table books, memoirs, cookbooks, and novels - there's something here for everyone. Enjoy!