Book Review: Bonsai – The Art of Living Sculpture

A Book Review by June M. & Don L.

Book Reviewed

Bonsai – The Art of Living Sculpture
by Jack Douthitt
Rizzoli International Publications, Inc., 2001

Bonsai - The Art of Living Sculpture by Jack Douthitt

Recommendation & Impression

This book was published with the bonsai beginner in mind. Its focus is on trees and their sculptural art forms; little information is provided about species, styling details, history, owners, or the future potential of the trees.
A great mix of styles and species holds the reader’s interest from cover to cover. Several of the trees featured will be familiar to TBS members. The book is a welcome addition to our library. Both the bonsai novice and enthussiast will enjoy this book.

Content & Summary

Excellent photography presents the trees of fourteen countries. The pictures draw attention to the sculptural aspects of the trees. From the “photography credits” section of the book we learn that several past and present members of the Toronto Bonsai Society have their trees on display!

Commentary

The text is a refreshing departure from the usual step-by-step approach common to many bonsai books. It is easy to read, and has been distributed throughout the book in such a way that it does not detract from the beauty of the trees on adjacent pages.