Book Review: The Arboretum by Gail Harland

I have reviewed a previous book by Gail Harland, so when I was asked if I wanted to review her latest book quickly said yes.  I know her writing and research to be of good quality and I like her style of writing.

I have to be transparent and say that I have not paid for this book.  I have not been paid to write this review and my words and opinions are entirely my own.

Now, where was I, oh yes: The Arboretum.  Well, she had me at trees as they say.  To have the land to have an arboretum is a dream so to read about their social histories and origins was fascinating to me.

Gail starts the book by telling us how important trees are: not just in terms of their carbon dioxide absorbing properties, but also how they contribute to human wellbeing.  It is no surprise that they are reflected in folklore and culture throughout the world: both as places of whimsy and of darkness and fear.  Trees and forests feature in stories down centuries: Gail provides examples and illustrations from around the world.

We are then taken through the development of arboretums: either as places for growing important resources or as a place of sanctuary and shade.  Of course it was people with great riches who would have the land and the money to do this.  Indeed the display of rare trees is a good physical display of wealth.  

I was delighted to see a mention of Nottingham Arboretum in the book.  Nottingham is my home town.  It is a fine example of the creation of public space to help alleviate the lack of nature/greenery in the cities impacted on by the Industrial Revolution.  It is a place of calm and tranquility just moments away from the city centre.  

We also learn about private collectors' arboreta, which are still being created and added to today.  Throughout history some individual trees have had specific histories and meaning attached to them; and trees have been used to signify areas of great meaning and solemnity.  Gail covers all this in her book.

I really enjoyed reading this book, it told me a lot I did not know which is always a good thing.  My one criticism is that it does not have an index, I feel this would really add to the book.

Anyhoo, index aside, if you have an interest in trees and/or arboreta then this book is for you.

The Arboretum by Gail Harland is published by Amberley Publishing.

Take care and be kind.

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