I have always loved bonsai and dreamed of growing one.  I have even tried a couple of times over the years, with little success.  This book gives me the incentive to try again and makes me think that I might be able to actually do it.  With fantastic photos, detailed instructions and tons of illustrations, the author walks you through everything from choosing a plant and a pot to proper tree training and possible pests.

This is a fantastic encyclopedia of Bonsai trees. It shows many different types of Bonsai, how to grow them and how to care for them. The general growing and caring for sections are followed by specific instructions for the type of Bonsai tree being addressed.

Descriptions and illustrations of each tree type are included. I learned a tremendous amount of information from this book. It is a must for anyone interested in owning a Bonsai tree.


I received an ARC from DK through NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion or rating of this book. I am voluntarily submitting this review and am under no obligation to do so.

Happy Bonsai by Michael Tran is a good book for beginners. I liked that there were lots of pictures in the book including the way the bonsai should look. I would buy this book for any beginner that is interested in bonsai and would recommend it to anyone interested in learning about this gardening technique.

Happy Bonsai: Choose It, Shape It, Love It is a beginner friendly tutorial and introduction to the art and philosophy of bonsai by Michael Tran. Due out 5th May 2020 from Penguin Random House on their DK imprint, it's 144 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.

This is a really well written introduction to bonsai aimed at keen beginner level to expert gardeners. There is a good introduction with some history, current state of the hobby, a very short capsule introduction to tree growth and botany, as well as short 1-2 page tutorials on choosing pots and accessories, plant materials, and training bonsai into different shapes. The second section of the book includes profiles and information for 40 different species (all with accompanying photos). In fact the entire book is beautifully photographed with an accessible and understandable graphic layout.

Gorgeous gorgeous bonsai in all their glory, showing a wide variety of species trained into both traditional and modern silhouettes. Worthwhile and inspirational.

Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The art of keeping bonsai is not for everyone. They are delicate, susceptible to heat and cold, and need constant care. But if you have been thinking about trying this hobby, this is an excellent book to get you started. Includes an introduction to general bonsai care, discussion of choice of container, and an encyclopedia of bonsai by type of tree/plant. This is a DK title, so there are plenty of photos, illustrations, and easily readable text.

This is a very comprehensive book on choosing and caring for Bonsai trees. I really loved reading it. I have never been brave enough to try growing my own Bonsai because I kill almost all houseplants. Only the hardiest and less needy plants survive my care. This book makes even me feel brave enough that if chosen carefully I could cultivate and care for a Bonsai.

I can truly see the joy and love caring for a Bonsai can foster. It has such a calming and therapeutic quality to nurturing and shaping your creation which is a long journey spanning years of careful cultivation. Each one an individual creation of it's owners personality skill level and dedication.

I truly loved the history of original Bonsai trees and the fact they are hardy by nature. I find it fascinating that choosing a pot is one of the major aspects of the Bonsai and is chosen with the specific plant in mind to ensure the adherence to tradition and proper care. This book is incredibly fascinating and I loved it. This is a true collectible for a Bonsai enthusiast or anyone wanting to explore this fascinating hobby. I highly recommend it. I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.

The cover of this book is so eye-catching, just like the cute bonsai trees that have always fascinated me. I have always wanted to own one, but up until now I was too intimidated. I always heard they were a lot of work and hard to take care of. However, after reading this book I feel confident enough to finally purchase one. In the first half of the book, the author thoroughly explains the basics like what tools are needed, how often to water, how and when to prune, what pot to choose, and types of common pests and diseases. He also goes into more depth about how to shape your tree using techniques like wire to grow branches in certain directions, creating a cascading style, revealing your tree's deadwood, and growing the trunk in a specific direction. Then the second half of the book contains details for type of bonsai tree and whether it's best grown indoor or outdoor, how often to water it, how to best prune it, and when to repot it. This book is a wonderful and comprehensive resource for anyone interested in growing and caring for bonsai trees.

*Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley. However, all opinions are my own.*