I'm a big fan of bonsai books. I've posted recently about bonsai communities and bonsai study groups, but a good book can come in handy. Bonsai books offer a way to read and learn about techniques you might otherwise never know about. They can also be a great resource when looking for a specific species, trying to find ideas for shapes and styles, or to match a tree and pot choice.
I've recently discovered a great site that offers a unique service. Shelfari provides its users the ability to share knowledge about books they have read, own, and recommend. From the Shelfari site:
Based in Seattle, Shelfari introduces readers to our global community of book lovers and encourages them to share their literary inclinations and passions with peers, friends, and total strangers (for now). Shelfari was the first social media site focused on books, and will continue to innovate as it brings together the world's readers. Our mission is to enhance the experience of reading by connecting readers in meaningful conversations about the published word.
Shelfari’s members:
- Build virtual bookshelves to express themselves to their friends and to the world
- Discover books that are popular in their trusted circles of friends
- Influence peers by rating and discussing books online
- Discover and learn from people with similar reading tastes
- Participate in online book groups to further explore literature and share ideas
- Interact with and learn from authors
Shelfari was officially launched in October 2006 with Josh Hug and Kevin Beukelman as the co-founders., Amazon.com invested in Shelfari in February 2007 and Shelfari immediately formed a board of advisors combining a list of high profile individuals. For further information on Shelfari, check out the featured links on the left hand side.
So, why don't you join me on Shelfari?