Gods, Wasps and Stranglers: The Secret History and Redemptive Future of Fig Trees

I knew I liked banyan trees, but I had no idea that a book on all the species of figs could be so absorbing! Shanahan recounts both cultural and botanical details with knowledge and flair. I'm now thinking of gardening and reading friends who might love to gt this book for Xmas.

A wonderful look at the glorious fig tree. This was supposed to be a used book but it’s literally brand new. Thank you!

Really enjoying this book. Besides the fact that I have a favorite fig tree of my own and cuttings from a tree in my mother's yard that is well over 60 yrs old. Great history and a better understanding of the" connectedness" of everthing. Thanks for all your hard work!

If you are not already convinced that ficus is one of the most important plants on earth - if not the most important - you will be after reading this!

If you are a gardener, botanist, or just interested in nature, I can recommend this to you. It is not a dry text book. The author writes well and explains the figs place in history and religion with personal anecdotes and stories that are interesting and educational. When I bought it, i wasn't sure about it (a book about figs?), but I can recommend it. It was really quite enjoyable and a fast read.

Seller sent a beautiful bright new copy. What a pleasure to hold.

I read this after hearing an interview with the author on NPR . It is a book I would not have likely stumbled upon otherwise. Beautifully written, and very educational.

This is an extremely well-written book. Who knew figs could be so fascinating. Give it as a gift to someone you want to impress.

Wow! This is a highly fascinating look at the role the humble fig tree has had and what it is doing to combat natural disasters and climate change . Well written and well researched! Loved it. A must for anyone interested in gardening, fig trees and/or sustainable living.

A brilliant book and a very interesting read. This little book provides a fascinating overview of both the cultural importance of figs in human history including fertility and creation myths in many different societies as well as an overview of fig ecology and the importance of figs to tropical forest ecology. The text is interspersed with entertaining anecdotes of the authors personal experiences researching fig ecology in Borneo and New Guinea. There is also a chapter on how figs can be used for planting in projects to restore and reconnect damaged tropical forest, an area of tropical forest management long overdue for a a massive shakeup and effectiveness review. Highly recommended.

Fascinating.