Awareness of and concern for the planet's shrinking natural habitats parallel a growing interest in the field of ethnobotany, which appears to be spreading from the professional community to a broader readership. Manandhar's efforts will be well received, as he puts pen to paper to record more than three decades of trekking in remote areas of his homeland to gather research on Nepal's botanical riches. Even as knowledge of plant uses dwindled among village healers and the environment endured degradation, Manandhar observed rural life and studied native flora. Here he describes the characteristics of the land and the ethnicity of its inhabitants, and presents detailed facts and observations gleaned from countless collecting trips that provide the context for the diverse ways plants have been used for centuries. Illustrated with appealing line drawings and color photographs, the clear, concise writing allows all readers access to information contained in an extensive catalog of plant species. Botanical names, common, Nepali, and local designations, and particular uses are included in each entry. Alice Joyce
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