PPOTOW by Stewart McPherson

[sockhom]

Pitcher Plants of the Old World, volumes 1 and 2 by Stewart McPherson.

Hi,

I start this thread for those who want to give a review or just to talk about this two volumes book.
I personally love them but refuse to give an extended opinion as I don't wan't to be judge and party. So it's up to you!


Truly,

François.

[philgreen]

I'm sure other will give much better reviews - but I'll start the ball rolling.

I also luv em, and am very glad to have purchased them. Some really wonderful photo's and loads of them. They are quality publications and amazingly good value for what you get. I also like the smallish size of the books (just over half A4), which makes it comfortable to hold and read. Being the standard size for all his books, means they sit well as a collection on the shelf.

With the species being covered on a geographic basis, it is nice to see how the different species relate to each other. With nice explainations on the differences between similar species.

These almost make nice catalogues for "ooh, I want one of them and that and ...."

They are not without their problems (but then what is). I'm finding a small number of minor errors - which I'm sure will be corrected if the books get reprinted, but nothing serious. The IC section seems a bit weak, but then the knowledge on these has changed so much recently and since Stewart did them, that isn't surprising. Personally, I also find the formulaic nature of the descriptions a bit irritating - when reading each species in turn. Because quite often the same sentences are repeated time, after time etc. But then I guess it's the most effeciant way of doing it - just not one I like.

They do mention the known natural hybrids and a section showing a few. But now I'd like to see Stewart to do a follow up volume covering all the know natural hybrids - or at least, as many as possible. Because for me, the natural hybrids are as interesting as the species themselves.

Given that, I would recommend them to anyone with an interest in Neps. I don't think you'll be sorry. They will become some of the must have classic's. So get them now, while they are still affordable.