MoonglotexasIn reading Kevin Hobbs and David West’s “The Story of Trees”, I hoped to expand my knowledge of trees through better understanding each tree’s historical context. The back cover also suggested a visual experience which appealed.
Whilst the content on each tree is interesting, there was little in it I wasn’t already aware of and the only visual for each tree is an illustration. I would so have appreciated a photo as it’s hard to differentiate amongst so many from a creative interpretation. It is equally hard to appreciate the scale of each tree in relation to another. Perhaps I’ve read too much on what has become a favourite subject.
It is well researched and easy to read so if you are looking for a book to woo you into getting to know trees better, this may be one for you. It’s a three out of five on the enJOYment scale.
From the back cover:
The Story of Trees takes the reader on a visual journey from some of the earliest known tree species on our planet to the latest fruit cultivars.
The chosen trees have all had a profound effect on the planet and humankind. Starting with the Ginkgo biloba, fossils of which date back 270 million years, we learn about how trees came to be integral to the development of our species and how specific trees have become important religious, political and cultural symbols.
With beautiful illustrations by Thibaud Herem and fascinating botanical facts and figures, this book will appeal to tree lovers from all over the world.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Lawrence King Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
