Best Beginner Book....

JBMorrey

Would like advice on a good book for beginners, I would like something that has good illustrations, I've read far too many times to "pinch back" or "prune" with no illustrations on how to do this. Maybe a video would be a better choice? Thanks!!
James

P.S: Merry Christmas Everyone!!

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soonami

I think there are many that are good.

I like Deborah Koreshoff's Bonsai, its Art, Science, and Philosophy the most, followed by
John Naka's Bonsai Techniques I & II
Harry Tomlinson's Complete Book of Bonsai which is a bit more modern but the trees aren't as nice
I've heard Craig Coussin's Bonsai School is pretty good but I haven't read it

andrew lenden

I like Dan Bartons bonsai book, its all based on his own records of his collection going back to at least the early seventies, however as Mr Barton is based in the u.k. maybe not too relevent to you, Craig coussins bonsai school may score higher as it has an international flavour, with guest artists from around the world. I have not read Bonsai, its science art and philophosy but am in the position to purchase so if anyone would give their opinion on this title it would be appreciated, regards Andrew

soonami

I borrowed the Koreshoff book from my University library for a month and I didn't finish getting through it. The book is filled with information, not like a lot of modern books that only scratch the surface but fill in with pictures. I think that it would be worth it to get it. I was looking at a copy that was on ebay, it was like $50 USD and like $40 to ship from the UK, needless to say, a free library book beats a $90 book

andrew lenden

I believe that the koreshoff book is back in print at stonelantern for $45 http://www.stonelantern.com/booksnew.html#

sauce

I have all of the books Soonami mentioned and they are all good books. My top two recommendations would be Deborah Koreshoff and Craig Coussins in that order. Deborahs book is the best, IMO of the eight books that I own. It is available at stonelantern.com as Andrew mentioned for $45. I also found it here http://www.nybgshopinthegarden.org....ROD&ProdID=2110 for $30 but I'm not sure if this site is up to date. It is well worth the price if you ask me.

top_cat

I would suggest Bonsai School by Craig Coussins is a good book for anyone starting out in Bonsai. There are a lo of good pictures and advice.

It's on Amazon for $12 which is a lot less than John Naka's books

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Larry

I think Peter Chan's Bonsai masterclass is an excellent resource for a beginner. It has quite a lot of info in it as well as step by step guides to many practices. I'd like to see an updtaed version of this book with more colour photos, but other than that its great!
Also Dan Barton's Bonsai book, the first one I bought.

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JohnAP

I just tried to order Deborah's book here....it said "contact the store on purchasing information." Stone Lantern appears to be carrying it...at least they let me order it! I have both John Naka books....haven't cracked part II yet, 3/4 of the way through I. Wish I had them a lot sooner. I might just order Deborahs' book.....see what happens....