Plain orchids

“Orchids” is a book written by Henrik Aerenlund Pedersen, with illustrations by Bo Mossberg. At least in Sweden, Mossberg is often regarded as the “main author”, probably because he is more famous than the actual writers of books he illustrates. Of course, it's possible that Mossberg *is* the de facto editor.

Mossberg has previously worked on two field guides to European orchids, later published under one cover (at least in Sweden). Many illustrations in this new volume seem to be adapted from these field guides. “Orchids” contains general chapters on the orchid family, and information on the various genera found in Europe. It illustrates most European species, but contains very little species-specific information. “Europe” is here defined as everything west of the Urals and north of the Caucasus, plus the Canary Islands, Madeira and Azores. It also includes the East Aegean islands and the “European” part of Turkey, but excludes Cyprus.

This isn't a “bad” volume, but I nevertheless wonder about who might want to buy it. It's not really a field guide, and feels too small for a reference volume. It may look good on your coffee table, or perhaps in a public library…

Four stars for the artwork, but still unsure as to value?