Review by Craig Postlethwaite
This is the first general, wide audience book on
lichens that has been published for nearly 25 years. The older books (Understanding Lichens by Baron
and New Naturalist 86: Lichens by Gibbons) were
written before modern techniques such as DNA
sequencing allowed a greater understanding of the complexities of lichens so a new book is welcome.
The production values of this book are very high. It is a hardback that opens flat and the print quality of the many photographs and diagrams is excellent. The layout is visually appealing with no pages of solid text; everything discussed has relevant photographs and diagrams close by.
The book’s chapters are structured around various topics. “The Players”, “Lichen Architecture”, and “Lichens and People” are examples of chapter titles. Within each chapter there are sub topics where the themes are explored in an almost narrative way. The authors are both experts and cover some complicated subjects in an easy to read style where jargon is kept to a minimum. Each chapter ends with a handful of mini monographs on species of lichen from around the world. These develop or illustrate themes that the chapter has covered. Overall the writing style is light and enjoyable.
The book provides a wonderful introduction to lichens. It covers what they are and how they work rather than an identification guide. It reflects and discusses some of the latest discoveries even mentioning the very recent splitting of the Graphidion species. The explanation of the biology of lichens is excellent. Complicated topics are explained in simple terms that make them very understandable. While the level of detail may not be enough for dedicated lichenologists, it’s absolutely perfect for anyone who has an interest in lichens and wants to know more without plunging into university level textbooks. The diagrams and photographs are consistently great and at times amazing. It’s obvious that a lot of work has gone into the layout so that all relevant material for a topic is close together and every page is visually appealing.
My only minor criticisms are:
- The use of not generally accepted English/Common names. Even the authors admit they made some up for the book. This is my pet peeve that may not bother most people.
- The glossary seems to miss a few things that I feel could have been there. “Eukaryote” for example.
If you are interested in learning more about lichens I’d recommend this book without any hesitation.
Publisher: Princeton University Press, June 2024
ISBN: 9780691247274
Hardback, 288 pp, £30.00
At the time of writing both Pemberley Books and Summerfield Books are selling this at a significant discount from the list price of £30.
Paisley Natural History Society 
This book sounds like a must buy for people with a general interest in lichens too ( such as myself !) – ‘complicated topics explained in a simple way ‘ & with excellent photos and diagrams. One for the family reference bookshelf !
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Great review Craig. Will put it on my birthday present list! Cheers Anne P
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