The Botany of Desire: A Plant's-Eye View of the World by Michael Pollan Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of The Botany of Desire: A Plant's-Eye View of the World
Book Review: a must read
Summary: 5 Stars
I read this after a review and it was spellbinding. The auther writes about the plantworld in near magical terms. The last chapter on potatoes should be required reading for all students. Amazing book and I've already bought two and gave them away as gifts to like minded friends.Book Review: A Treat.
Summary: 4 Stars
Michael Pollan's writing style is unusual, but engaging in a chatty, "round the table" type way. The content is broad and diverse. Pollan is comfortable going lateral, deviating readily to highlight some unusual aspects of the material being explored, and just as readily leading the reader on, to consider other interesting dynamics and perspectives.
I would encourage anyone interested in the Biology / Ecology type areas, and teachers in particular, to consider this book. I believe it definitely encourages one to consider fresh perspectives on (and a greater respect for) the interactions between mankind and our plant world.
(It is a book that I have already added to the "Must Read" list for my Gifted & Talented students at High School.)
Book Review: A little flowery
Summary: 3 Stars
It is certainly an unusual approach to a topic and I did learn some interesting facts. However, our book club felt that it was a little long winded in some parts. The most eye opening section was the Potato - I am not sure I will ever eat a french fry, or potato chip again.Book Review: Well-researched and informative
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a most interesting, well researched book. The author takes a look at the industry of food production from the perspective of both the individual producer as well as large agribusinesses. He actually purchases a steer and follows its life from grazing through slaughter. His detailed descriptions made his personal experiences very real to the reader. It is a book that you think about long after you finish reading, and I recommend it highly.Book Review: natural history of flowers, food, and pot
Summary: 5 Stars
pollan approaches natural history like a journalistic reporter. he digs, reads, talks, and relentlessly pursues his topic until he sees it as clearly as possible for his readers. he gives you the natural history of apples, tulips, marijuana, and potatoes so that we can better see our relationship with plants from both sides. he avoids the common assumptions and polarized narratives that each side spins out. for example, he spends time with a monsanto rep and sees some good in the apollonion approach before finally coming back to the need to reconsider our approach - monoculture - and it's effects on the future of farming and diversity. he is not lazy. he explores the issues and asks the big questions. he gives you references for follow-up reading. he shares insights about marijuana; why it is taboo, what experience are we after, and why we need it back in our garden. i loved the quote "memory is the enemy of wonder". the "omnivore's dilemma" is more of the same and done even better.