Mandy Kirkby

A Victorian Flower Dictionary by Mandy Kirkby and Vanessa Diffenbaugh is a wonderful companion to Diffenbaugh’s novel, The Language of Flowers. Beginning with a few introductory pages Diffenbaugh writes that, “In every culture throughout time, flowers have been central to the human experience.” The book is arranges in alpha order from anemone to weeping willow and illustrates in simple two color illustration the flower that is being defined and explored. There are fifty flowers highlighted and the information and poetry is descriptive. As Diffenbaugh explains, this book was designed as a relevant dictionary for the modern reader and it serves that function well. If you are a lover of flowers and exploring their history and meanings, this would be a good addition to your library. Happy reading and gardening.… (altro)

Most South Africans steer clear of those books of the secret language of flowers [why it’s still a secret after the many books published on the subject is a mystery] so beloved of the Victorians because they contain completely foreign names like Bells of Ireland, Everlasting Pea and Wax Flower.

Kirkby is English and her book does contain some unusual [to us] flowers but for the most part they are common garden favourites that thrive in South Africa, such as the nasturtium, rose, daisy – and 47 others.

The entries are arranged alphabetically, and each contains a drawing, the meaning of the plant, its history, some cultural references and a verse about the flower – usually taken from a Victorian poet. There is also an ‘emotional index’ and suggestions of flowers for special occasions.

It must be mentioned that the drawings, although charming, are inept and that the book was conceived as a companion volume to foreword writer Vanessa Diffenbaugh’s debut novel [‘The Language of Flowers’ redux] but none of that detracts from the appeal of the book, delightfully designed, satisfyingly sized and altogether delectable.… (altro)