Comments & Reviews - Second Edition
Fremontia Journal of the California Native Plant Society, May 2016----by Chris Tarp
This award-winning book has been expanded to include Humboldt and Del Norte counties; coverage now includes all coastal counties from
Marin (plus Napa) to Oregon. Additionally, 35 new species have been added, along with 230 new photos. The book is logically organized, with an introductory chapter explaining the arrangement of species by flower color, family, and number
of petals, followed by brief remarks on geology, climate, and habitats where flowers could be seen. Each description includes both common and scientific names, plus its botanical family. The flower and the rest of the plant are described,
along with useful comments on habitat, blooming period, range, and size.
Parker’s book is easy and straight-forward to use and its selection of wonderful photos (virtually all by the author) makes this book incredibly appealing.
The exceptional quality of photography is coupled with top-notch production values and assembly; however, the book itself is a bit too large to fit in one’s pocket. This book is a delight to browse, whether to identify something new or
to preview what’s out there to be seen. The book’s approach works well for identification, especially when searching by flower color. Throughout, Parker emphasizes conservation; she believes that flowers are best experienced intact. It’s
clear that Parker has a real passion for the plants she photographed.…
Flower lovers, both old and new, will enjoy owning and using this revised book, now enhanced by its increased geographical coverage. It will continue to appeal
to those seeking a simple and non-technical way to identify commonly encountered plants. Parker has done a great job of presenting some of California’s diverse flora in an unusually attractive and aesthetic way.
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