Review by Choice Review
Discoveries in the Garden is an unusual book--a bit like a cross between a modern botany lab manual and a "wonders of the garden" book. Nardi is a biology professor at the University of Illinois, and he knows his science. Each chapter provides a narrative description of the topic at hand, such as seeds, growth, or color, alongside some simple experiments to demonstrate the relevant science. But the narratives are not as dry as the average lab manual, and Nardi also pens marvelous illustrations featuring a curious field mouse and other animals for the beginning of each chapter and more scientific (mostly) illustrations of plants and experiments throughout the chapters. The experiments following the narratives are simple but well chosen; these are followed by further questions to explore. Some chapters contain several experiments, so there are plenty of chances to learn by doing. This volume will probably be of most interest to gardeners wishing to learn more about botanical science, plant physiology, and ecology, but it will serve well for a garden-related curriculum for homeschoolers and schools with gardens. Summing Up: Recommended. Undergraduates, general readers, and professionals. --Rebecca C. Hedreen, Southern Connecticut State University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review