Six years ago I was working with a student who was planning a move to Europe. He wanted a starting point for growing bonsai in a new climate, so we came up with a series of guides to help him get started. When we finished, I felt like I had the start to a second bonsai book.
What I didn’t know was how long it would take! At the time, the Little Book of Bonsai was just going to press. I needed a break before starting another writing project, so I didn’t get to work on a new draft for a few years. The writing went well, but not quickly, as there were other things going on at the time (two Expos and a major home remodel).
Today, I’m happy to announce that on April 15, 2025, The Essential Bonsai Book will be released!
The Essential Bonsai Book
The book is a product of the same creative team behind The Little Book of Bonsai. It’s published by Ten Speed Press with photography by David Fenton.
Unlike The Little Book, which is a basic introductory text, The Essential Bonsai Book provides practical information to help readers select material to work with, set goals for their collections, learn core training techniques, and understand when and how to apply these techniques.
It’s also bigger than The Little Book (The Essential Book is a 9″ x 7.5″ x .6″ softcover), and longer (224 pages) with far more color photographs (over 280!).
I’ll be sharing more details about the book over the next couple of months, but in the meantime, it’s available for pre-order from popular online booksellers and from the Bonsai Tonight Online Store.
If you’d like to inquire about bulk orders or help promote the book in your club or community, send me a note and I can provide information as the on-sale date approaches. Digital review copies are available if you’d like to write a review.
In the meantime, I’d like to send a huge thanks to everyone at Ten Speed Press, everyone who provided feedback on drafts and helped in the garden or with photo shoots – none of this would be possible without your contributions. Thanks!
Christian says
This sounds like an incredible new resource for bonsai enthusiasts! It’s awesome that it goes deeper than The Little Book of Bonsai and teaches even more helpful tips. With its larger format, increased page count, and over 280 color photographs, it definitely seems like a valuable investment. Thanks so much for sharing the news and for all the hard work that went into creating this book. Congratulations to you and the entire team!
Vance Hanna says
Congratulations Jonas I look forward to reviewing the book I’m sure it will be a hit!
Nguyen Tuan Nghia says
Great, i want to get this book