The “Periplus Nature Guides” series are practical field guides useful in identifying a whole range of natural phenomena – plants, animals, objects - found in the Indonesian archipelago. Each weighing in at a modest 64 pages, for their size they really pack a wallop.
Filled with clear and precise photographs and informative text, the guides cannot be called definitive or even comprehensive in their coverage. But they are representative – a sort of the “best of the best” of the country’s genera in each respective kingdom, be it wildlife, flowers or fishes.
Scientific and local language names are also listed. Each book contains 75 or more color plates. Only seven out of a total of 12 in the series are reviewed below:
Tropical Plants of Indonesia. Clear identification photos and explanatory text for the 60 most common tropical plants found in Indonesia. Trees, shrubs, flowers and fruits are all presented in full color. Included are exotic and beautiful blooms, plants with utilitarian uses, as well as some of the more extraordinary members of the plant kingdom. Each entry is described in detail, and expert botanical information is included, along with interesting historical anecdotes. Perfect for aficionados of tropical flora. Text by Elizabeth Chan, photographs by Luca Invernizzi Tettoni, Periplus 2003, ISBN 0-7946-0257-6.
Tropical Flowers of Southeast Asia. Introduces 55 plant species commonly found in the region. Each exotic bloom is described in detail, its history of origination discussed and gardening tips are given. Illustrated with lavish color photos, this book contains a wealth of botanical information as well as fascinating information on the cultural uses of flowers. A “must” for gardeners. Text by William Warren, photos by Luca Invernizzi Tettoni, Periplus 1996, ISBN 962-593-134-1.
Tropical Vegetables of Indonesia. Introduces over 50 vegetables commonly found in the country. Each is described in detail and its country of origin and areas of growth discussed. Culinary options are given with tips on how to produce the best flavors. The book ends with mouth-watering recipes. Lists Indonesian, Malay and Tagalog names as well as scientific species and family names. A good buy for lovers of exotic tropical taste sensations. Text by Wendy Hutton, photography by Peter Mealin, Periplus 1996, ISBN 962-593-149-X.
Tropical Wildlife of Southeast Asia. Provides an excellent introduction to 86 of the most fascinating species of the region, many unique only to Southeast Asia. Written by a leading wildlife authority, this little book combines a wealth of zoological information with 12 full-color photos. Both scientific and common names are included. Text by Jane Whitten, photos by Alain Compost, Periplus 1998, ISBN 962-593-065-5.
Tropical Reef Fishes of Indonesia. A good introduction to 68 of Indonesia’s most commonly encountered reef fishes. Written by an international authority on reef fishes, the book also features stunning color shots by some of the world’s foremost underwater photographers. Text by Gerald R. Allen, Ph.D., Periplus 1996, ISBN 962-593-152-X.
Tropical Marine Life. A survey of the most colorful and fascinating marine plants and invertebrates that inhabit the Indo-Pacific region’s rich coral reef systems. Text by Gerald R. Allen, Ph.D., Periplus 1997, ISBN 962-593-157-0.
Tropical Gemstones. An introduction to the full range of superb gemstones mined and processed in the Southeast Asian region – their physical characteristics, historical importance and countries of origin. Stunning color photos and informative text by a noted writer on gemstones, this book will delight gem collectors and lovers of fine jewelry alike. Text by Carol Clark, Periplus 2000, ISBN 962-593-184-8.
All of the above titles are available at Periplus Bookshops in the Bali Galleria and in the Matahari in Kuta, Warung Made in Seminyak, Ngurah Rai Airport (both international and domestic terminals), in Gramedia Bookstores, and in Ary’s, Ganesha and Periplus bookshops of Ubud.
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Copyright#2004 PakBill
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