I got a book in the mail. Sweet.

I love doing book reviews!

Especially well put together ones. That means I get to share it with y’all (even though I’ve been in the “South” longer than I was in the “North” I still find it hard to say y’all….).

Let’s talk about the book.

First, the photos are amazing. This is from a dude that takes photos (very badly and unprofessionally I must add) to tell stories. But the photos, and not the “arty” ones like these… ……really do the job they’re supposed to: show you what the words are telling.

And, not surprisingly for a Tuttle imprint, it is informative.

The book highlights moss; the different kinds, the growing conditions and culture, the where/how/ethics of moss collection from the wild, and, importantly, growing it yourself.

It covers using moss on bonsai, or by itself.

It tells a story of the growing popularity of using moss amongst the younger generation, in Japan and the world, and how it is introducing them to traditional bonsai practice (if you haven’t discovered them yet, I’d recommend seeking out The Bonsai Girls project. They’re very active on Instagram @bonsai.girls.project They also have a Facebook page about their activities where they really show the growth of the “Pop Bonsai” movement in Japan)

Take this a kokedama: what’s that? Well, the English word just isn’t as euphonious as the Japanese term: moss balls. (Funny story, I mentioned the growing art of kokedama to a bonsai professional who had apprenticed in Japan and was newly returned from his studies. He didn’t know about it. Flash forward a half year and his girlfriend is selling them at a bonsai convention. That’s how quickly the moss movement and Pop Bonsai is spreading).

The book shows you Kokedama construction as well as maintenance. And I promise you won’t see any floating magnetic gizmos.

My favorite parts (I keep saying this, I know) are the are many tips… …..and cultivation considerations of moss growing. The book also explores terrariums (a way to bring growing things into your apartment or dorm room? Mmmmm?) and even moss landscapes, like the squirrel and bunny ones here: Dawwwww….

Written by Megumi Oshima and Hideshi Kimura (I wonder if there’s a relationship with The Magician Himself?), published by Tuttle, I’m giving it a “Highly Recommended” for your bonsai bookshelf, if for no other reason than the horticultural info on moss (did I mention the very well written horticultural info on moss right?)

Hardbound, good to the touch, well thought out, professionally photographed…..go get yourself a copy today.