This is indeed a nicely presented book with an interesting concept in which various bonsai experts offer their opinions and creative ideas behind this amazing artform. I have to pick up on the history section though, in which it is explained that the term bonsai means bon=tree and sai=tray. This is in fact NOT the case. The word bon (this particular kanji) actually refers to a Buddhist tray, one on which various ritual implements where placed. The actual kanji on its own is not used much anymore and is only usually encountered today in the word bonsai. The kanji sai actually means "a planting," not a tree, or a plant, but "a planting." So the Japanese term BONSAI means "a planting on a (Buddhist) tray." It can be seen from early 7th century paintings that bonsai in Japan were connected with (Mikkyo) Buddhist contemplation/meditation, and that they were indeed grown on a tray without a "pot" as such. Some examples of this style are shown in the book. Another thing that is a little annoying is the many typographical errors that hinder reading. Some words are repeated, some are mis-spelled, and others are missing entirely. This can make it hard to understand and annoying.
Some of the pictures appear to be reprinted from poor-quality scans or photocopies - but maybe this was intentional? or perhaps that was the only copy of the picture available to the publisher.
All in all an interesting read and an insightful book.
Hundreds of photographs and dozens of ?step-by-step?s?I started Bonsai a little while back and have bought a couple of books to help me. The first one I bought was too advanced for me but the second book, Bonsai for Beginners, by Craig Coussins was just the very thing I needed. It was great. Lots of step-by-step examples and easy to understand text. I recently found out that Craig Coussins has written a new book, Bonsai School. This book is amazing. When I received it from Amazon, I had what could only be described as a ?real book? in my hands. I mean it was big, thick and packed with wonderful photographs of bonsai, techniques and examples of many Bonsai Teachers work. Just like a school, the book has different techniques explained in detail by teachers in different subjects. Craig Coussins, the architect of the book, has brought together exciting talented and knowledgeable instructors who share that knowledge with ?me?. I say me because the book is like my own personal college faculty. I found Bonsai School very easy to read. That was funny initially as I first thought it was purely a technical book until I found myself reading the book. It is superbly written and really, a Bonsai book for everyone. Gardeners, bonsai growers and horticulturalists.
It starts with a history that is truly fascinating and indeed, riveting. Craig Coussins has gone into this research in a very thorough way. It shows. Peppered with great images, this section looks at the discovery of bonsai in different countries. With its origins arising from accidents as well as discoveries, the Chinese Penjing-Chinese Bonsai- are superbly illustrated and the subsequent development in Japan is then discussed by a famous Bonsai historian. The chapters seamlessly bland and makes the book easy to follow. A joy!
The book is divided into chapters covering the styles, techniques and methods of growing Bonsai and Penjing. Many teachers are represented here. Uniquely this book is not just one person?s view but a sharing of views from around the world. Indeed from afar a field as China, Italy, America, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, Vietnam, England, Wales and of course Scotland, the authors home country.
What that means is that we now have far ranging step-by-step sections that are profusely illustrated with a specific subject which the individual writer wishes to share with us.
It covers all areas of ability. You may be a beginner or advanced but the author is considerate enough to show that everyone can use this book. In any event, you will always start somewhere and develop with study. That is where Bonsai School is so perfect. Clearly the author is a very experienced master of his art but the fact that he is shown pruning what can only be described as a beginners bonsai while later in the book refining a fantastic Yew Bonsai illustrates his thoughtfulness in catering for his audience. It is not about him but about the reader.
I can recommend Bonsai School to everyone and would urge you to choose this unique, well-written and profusely illustrated book for your pleasure, learning and study.
