Andrew
A comprehensive introduction to the art of bonsai that covers the primary forms, suitable species, and basic techniques for training the tree. Has a bit of a UK bias given that's where the author lives and works, but he makes an effort to generalize as much as possible when talking about the seasons and handling the bonsai in different weather.
I most appreciated the section where he discussed the progress of trees in his own collection, with notes and pictures taken over the course of 10-15 years in some cases. It really highlighted both how much dramatic change a tree can be induced to undergo and also how minute, gradual refinements may go unnoticed for years at a time but add up to a noticeable difference in the final product.
As to whether or not the information and advice in the book is sufficient to help someone develop a successful bonsai...I guess get back to me in 5 years or so.
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My Rating Scale
5 stars - An all-time classic, a book that fundamentally changed or enriched my life. Would recommend to any and all readers.
4 stars - An excellent book that stands out in one or more areas of writing style, characterization, making a point, etc. Would recommend to anyone with even a passing interest in the genre or subject matter.
3 stars - A perfectly serviceable book that may be entertaining or informative but does not push the envelope or linger long in the memory. Would recommend to pre-existing fans of the genre or author.
2 stars - A book that falls short in one or more areas of writing style, characterization, making a point, etc. Would only recommend with reservations or would not recommend at all.
1 star - A book that has nothing to say, or says it so poorly it isn't worth reading. Would not recommend and would actively warn away from.
A comprehensive introduction to the art of bonsai that covers the primary forms, suitable species, and basic techniques for training the tree. Has a bit of a UK bias given that's where the author lives and works, but he makes an effort to generalize as much as possible when talking about the seasons and handling the bonsai in different weather.
I most appreciated the section where he discussed the progress of trees in his own collection, with notes and pictures taken over the course of 10-15 years in some cases. It really highlighted both how much dramatic change a tree can be induced to undergo and also how minute, gradual refinements may go unnoticed for years at a time but add up to a noticeable difference in the final product.
As to whether or not the information and advice in the book is sufficient to help someone develop a successful bonsai...I guess get back to me in 5 years or so.
_____
My Rating Scale
5 stars - An all-time classic, a book that fundamentally changed or enriched my life. Would recommend to any and all readers.
4 stars - An excellent book that stands out in one or more areas of writing style, characterization, making a point, etc. Would recommend to anyone with even a passing interest in the genre or subject matter.
3 stars - A perfectly serviceable book that may be entertaining or informative but does not push the envelope or linger long in the memory. Would recommend to pre-existing fans of the genre or author.
2 stars - A book that falls short in one or more areas of writing style, characterization, making a point, etc. Would only recommend with reservations or would not recommend at all.
1 star - A book that has nothing to say, or says it so poorly it isn't worth reading. Would not recommend and would actively warn away from.