Botanical Shakespeare: An Illustrated Compendium of All the Flowers, Fruits, Herbs, Trees, Seeds, and Grasses Cited by the World's Greatest Playwright

A captivating, beautifully illustrated, one-of-a-kind color compendium of the flowers, fruits, herbs, trees, seeds, and grasses cited in the works William Shakespeare, Botanical Shakespeare presents companion quotes from all of his plays and poems. With a moving foreword by actor Dame Helen Mirren, Shakespeare historian Gerit Quealy and Japanese artist Sumié Hasegawa combine their knowledge and skill in this first and only book that examines every plant that appears in the works of Shakespeare.

This lovely tome opens with an examination of The Bard’s relationship to the plants mentioned in his works—a diversity that illuminates knowledge of the science of botany, as well as the colloquy, revealing keen skill for creating metaphorical connections and interweaving philosophy. At the heart of the book are "portraits" of the over 170 flowers, fruits, grains, grasses, trees, herbs, seeds and vegetables mentioned in Shakespeare. A gorgeous color illustration of each plant gives a face to the name, alongside the specific text in which it appears and the characters who utter the lines in which it is mentioned.

This breathtaking, incomparable collection of exquisite artwork and companion quotes offers unique depth and insight into Shakespeare and his timeless work through the unusual perspective of the plants themselves, making a thoughtful gift for book lovers and gardeners alike.

Hardcover. 208 pages. 9.25" x 6.5"W x .75"H.