This book came with a gift set, including cards, but the real gem is the book itself. Small (great stocking stuffer for art lovers)and easily accessible, there are fifteen plates showing a range of his works centering on his beloved garden. It begins with an autochrome of him at Giverney standing in front of his centrepiece of flowers and vines in front of his house.

His garden, like his art, was carefully plannned and required a precision of colors and placement. Many gardeners try to replicate this magnificence, but it really is much easier to just read and admire. Each plate is shown on the right with a one page summarization to the left. I suggest this as an easy and excellent way to introduce someone to Monet, while planting a smile on their face.


Book Season = Spring (when the bulbs are in full glory) ( )