*Starred Review* Editor Taylor, together with his team of advisory editors and numerous special-interest contributors, has succeeded admirably in creating an updated version of
The Oxford Companion to Gardens (1986). In its day, that publication was deemed a "pioneer" book in its field. The new volume expands the original international scope and supersedes and updates the content to include the latest scientific developments while adjusting some focal points to better address today's challenges. Gardens in previously inaccessible areas of the world--China, Eastern Europe, the Middle East--now are documented alongside those from the earlier edition.
Genetic modification of plants, Herbicides, Organic gardening, and
Pest control are just a few examples of formerly minor topics that have risen to the forefront and here are given ample discussion space.
All sizes, shapes, and types of gardens throughout the world are showcased here, from the Chelsea Physic Garden in London to the Chinampas of Xochimilco, Mexico City. The 1,750 alphabetically arranged entries range in size from just a few lines to several pages. Descriptions of the history of gardening within selected countries, including the styles and movements, are the longest entries. Greatest emphasis is on Great Britain, the U.S., France, Germany, and Italy. Garden descriptions are usually brief and outline histories, designers, size, type, and whether the garden is open to visitors. Biographical entries cover architects, artists, designers, gardeners, scientists, sculptors, writers, and others who influenced garden design. Other entries treat garden styles, features, and terms and various aspects of gardening history and gardening-related activities. Each entry is signed and, where appropriate, contains bibliographic references. Stunning full-page color plates of notable gardens are interspersed throughout. A thematic index is located at the beginning of the guide, preceding the main text, while a "Select Index," providing see references instead of page numbers, and a topical bibliography are at the end.
One would be hard-pressed to find many other garden guides equivalent in scope or authority to this work. The three-volume Encyclopedia of Gardens: History and Design (2001) is more comprehensive but also more focused on Europe. A treat for garden lovers and an excellent starting point for anyone exploring gardens throughout the world, The Oxford Companion to the Garden is not to be missed. Highly recommended for public and academic libraries. Ann Cohen
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Review
"Put plainly, this doorstop of a reference book is worth its weight in gold."--
The Los Angeles Times"The most comprehensive, authoritative, and beautifully illustrated single volume available about the world's great gardens and their creators...Essential."--
CHOICE"A valuable book for students of landscape design and garden enthusiasts. It's the perfect guide for anyone who wants to learn in an entertaining way about magnificent classical to contemporary gardens of the world.... A beautifully published hardcover that can be displayed on your coffee table."--
The Washington Post"The editor has increased the number of U.S. gardens cited in this edition.... The book is liberally sprinkled with handsome full color photographs that catch the spirit of the individual landscapes."--
National Gardener"Includes 1750 A-to-Z entries covering all aspects of gardening.... Over 1000 gardens world wide are featured--a number greatly expanded from the previous edition.... Highly recommended."--
Library Journal"A word of warning - there's no quick escape from this marvellous book"--
Hugh Johnson"A search engine for gardens between two covers.... Brings together a vast array of knowledge about gardens throughout the world over time."--Bill Noble, Director of Preservation Projects, The Garden Conservancy
"One of my all time favorite garden books.... If you are interested in a term, a place, a garden, or a person on the world's gardening scene this is the place to start."--Chuck Gleaves, Director of Kingwood Center
"Very readable. The style is clear, concise, and engaging."--
American Gardener
