Bonsai and Penjing - by Ann McClellan

Book Synopsis

This book shares the awe-inspiring stories of bonsai and penjing trees in the collection of the U.S. National Arboretum in Washington D.C.

It details their valuable role in international diplomacy and as instruments of American presidential influence. It also describes their inclusion in world's fair exhibitions, in Asian-inspired gardens around the country, and as a window onto the extensive cultivation of bonsai in North America today. A detailed first-hand account by Dr. John L. Creech is included about the first extraordinary gift of 53 bonsai from Japan to the U.S. in 1976, which prompted the founding of the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum.

Bonsai and Penjing, Ambassadors of Peace & Beauty describes how Chinese penjing and North American bonsai were later added to the museum, making its collection the most comprehensive in the world. Stories of individual trees and forest plantings are featured, as are the roles played by the skilled and talented creators of these living art forms--people such as John Naka, Saburo Kato, Yuji Yoshimura, Harry Hirao, and Dr. Yee-Sun Wu. Armchair travelers can experience what a visit to the museum is like, including the discovery of its remarkable viewing stones.

Bonsai and Penjing, Ambassadors of Peace & Beauty will delight anyone intrigued by these living works of art and curious about the stories they bring to life.

Review Quotes

"Beyond the rich historical context, the book's vivid color photographs and artistic representations enhance readers' appreciation of bonsai and penjing as more than just plants--they are living sculptures, shaped by both nature and human artistry....Its combination of historical insight, expert knowledge, and breathtaking imagery makes it a valuable addition to any collection." --Library Journal

"Bonsai and Penjing: Ambassadors of Peace & Beauty is more than just a showcase of artistic skill; it is a testament to the role that these miniature trees play in fostering international harmony. Through stunning visuals and rich storytelling, Ann McClellan has created a book that will appeal to both newcomers and seasoned practitioners of bonsai and penjing. For anyone interested in exploring the beauty and meaning behind these miniature wonders, this book is a must-read" --Garden Advice UK

"...fascinating, informative, and a pleasure to browse through from start to finish. Elegantly illustrated in full color throughout, Bonsai and Penjing will hold a very special value for readers with an interest in Japanese, Houseplant, and Ornamental Gardening." --Midwest Book Review

"...this beautifully illustrated volume dwells on the stories associated with the trees themselves...[It] has taken me away from sheer mechanics of bonsai cultivation, adding greatly to my appreciation of this ancient art." --Hortus Journal

"I think it is fair to say that all of the books I have that have been published by Tuttle are of excellent quality. However, just occasionally one finds one that is so good it 'fair takes one's breath away: this book, I'm delighted to report, is one of those...the illustrations are excellent. That said, although they are some of the best I have seen, they have to take second place to the text--which is superb." --Shakkei, the Journal of the Japanese Garden Society

"The book gives a unique perspective among the bonsai books I've reviewed and encountered over time, in that it's specifically about the national collection in DC. There's fascinating insight into the diplomacy behind bonsai gifting and exchange, and the deep traditional symbolism involved." --boZannical Gardens blog

"There is plenty of history for those who are interested. Of course, at the heart of the book are the exquisite photographs of these living masterworks, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at the Washington museum that makes them accessible to visitors from around the world." --Retailing Insight

About the Author

Ann McClellan is delighted to share her enthusiasm for trees and their stories, an interest that began when she grew up in New Jersey on an arboretum-like campus laid out by Frederick Law Olmsted. Her published work has focused on Japan's cherry blossoms in addition to bonsai, which led to her receiving the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays from the Government of Japan in recognition of her contributions toward introducing Japanese culture to Americans and promoting friendly Japan-U.S. relations. She treasures the living collections of the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum as profound expressions of the best that people together with nature can create.