Reviewed by annieb123 on
Happy Bonsai: Choose It, Shape It, Love It is a beginner friendly tutorial and introduction to the art and philosophy of bonsai by Michael Tran. Due out 5th May 2020 from Penguin Random House on their DK imprint, it's 144 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
This is a really well written introduction to bonsai aimed at keen beginner level to expert gardeners. There is a good introduction with some history, current state of the hobby, a very short capsule introduction to tree growth and botany, as well as short 1-2 page tutorials on choosing pots and accessories, plant materials, and training bonsai into different shapes. The second section of the book includes profiles and information for 40 different species (all with accompanying photos). In fact the entire book is beautifully photographed with an accessible and understandable graphic layout.
Gorgeous gorgeous bonsai in all their glory, showing a wide variety of species trained into both traditional and modern silhouettes. Worthwhile and inspirational.
Five stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 3 May, 2020: Finished reading
- 3 May, 2020: Reviewed