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This is an visually sumptuous book due to its extensive and beautiful images from collections in the State Library of Victoria. Aitken has traced the history and art of botany from the ancient civilisations up to the present day. He considers the discoveries of the potential of the plant to provide food, medicine, flavouring and decoration. Societies evolved around their possession of natural resources which they marketed throughout the world. Mercantile communities became extremely wealthy. In addition to the detailed and stunning illustrations the author has produced a lively and thorough book of history, nature, culture and art.
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'A garden should be just a little too big to keep the whole cultivated. Then it gives it a chance to go a little wild in spots Edna Walling, landscape designer Waratah or wattle? Chrysanthemum or rose? Planting Dreams celebrates the artistry and imagination that have shaped Australian gardens. Respected garden historian Richard Aitken explores the environmental and social influences that have helped produce our unique gardening culture."
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The identity of suburbia, so far as it can be ascribed one, is shifting and insecure, a borderline and liminal space. Dominant stereotypes have listed it as ‘on the margins’ beyond edges of cultural sophistication and tradition’ and the areas that make up ‘sprawl’. But in the twenty-first century this static view has to be modified. As is evident from this collection, suburban dwellers themselves have redefined themselves. This collection explores the range and complexity of twenty-first century responses to city suburbs, predominantly in Sydney. It draws on a range of approaches – from history to creative non-fiction and multi-media.