Customer Reviews

Plant Resins: Chemistry, Evolution, Ecology, and Ethnobotany

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I immediately ordered this book, with great glee. As an ethnobotanist, I find that this book is an invaluable source of information on a topic that has not been systematically covered in my field.

The illustrations are wonderful, the information value of the book is high and I am pleased to have this book in my collection.

This book offers a comprehensive look at the fascinating world of plant resins. It is a must have if you are looking for a single source of information on the subject. Even if you are not in the field (I'm certainly not), it makes for very interesting reading. And has the chemical reactions all diagrammed out for those of you with an interest in the organic chemistry side of things. Be aware that this is written like a text book, for the most part. But the commentary from the author keeps it from being yet another dry school text.

This book is mostly a thorough review of the state of knowledge of amber resins. For this purpose it is excellent but you might find it light on if for you are seeking in depth information about other botanical resins. The section on aloeswood is particularly scarce which disappointed me.

My review title may seem contradictory but Langenheim's book is an essential for any serious botanist, professional or amateur. It is full of minutia ("small or trivial detail") as well, which makes it so engaging, especially for the trivia buff. Included in the text are numerous, very well done drawings and photographs illustrating plant parts and functions, and ecological relationships. The biochemistry of plant resins is explained in detail, which may confuse the amateur, but is an important aspect of the text.

This book is the definitive text on plant resins and represents the summation of over forty years of research on the topic by the author. It is logically ordered, highly technical, comprehensive in is coverage and well illustrated. A thorough study of the evolution of resin-producing plants forms the solid botanical foundation of this work. Emphasis is given to the chemistry of the various resins(including amber - fossilized resin) and their distinctive properties. The use of resins by human society throughout the ages forms a fascinating part of the overall story.
If you are looking for a text that will provide you with the latest on plant resins, this is the book for you.

Far too technical for my needs. Unfortunately, one could not determine that fact from the amount of information given prior to the purchase.