Media reviews of this book:
"Of as much interest as the practical cutting points are the bits of history and lore woven into the chapters that stress the spiritual underpinnings of this ancient art."
—Marianne Binetti, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, May 18, 2007
"More than a pruning manual, Hobson's guide encompasses the cultural implications of niwaki, an artistic custom integral to the gardening legacy of Japan."
—Alice Joyce, Booklist, April 2007
"More marriages have gotten in trouble over the 'correct' way to prune shrubs than probably any other gardening task. We can't save your relationship, but we [can] suggest Niwaki — Pruning, Training, and Shaping Trees in the Japanese Way."
—Jill Sell, Cleveland Plain Dealer, July 28, 2007
"Has wonderful illustrations and very specific directions that should prove useful to anyone who has garden subjects that need pruning."
—Linda Brazill, Capital Times (Madison), July 28, 2007
"Any gardener would be fascinated, not only by the pruning and training techniques, but the background information about Japanese culture which the author weaves throughout the book."
—Karen Helfert, Washington Gardener, July/August 2007
Customer reviews of this book:
Better than expected. July 23, 2007
"This book is a must have for the Japanese garden enthusiast. Books about pruning and training trees for the Japanese garden are hard to find. Thanks to the Jake Hobson for writing this excellent book."
Finally! June 10, 2007
"Very good book for those of us who love our Japanese gardens and want to incoporate Niwaki techniques. Highly recommended book to add to your collection of books on Japanese gardens and their care. There's not another one like it on the market today. I love that the author is a sculptor and realized that his art could be translated into a living form of trees."
"A great, informative book that reads like a leisure book."—Richard H. from Tucson, Arizona, July 14, 2007
"Well-written with excellent photography!"—William S. from Garland, Texas, June 27, 2007
"Excellent, excellent book."—Rob J. from Ross Township, Pennsylvania, June 23, 2007
"Very nice and interesting book. It gave me so many ideas!"—Lherbet Sylvie from France, June 22, 2007
"Great! Very informative!"—David M. from Raeford, North Carolina, May 11, 2007