than taste, and where not only the spirit of the environment but the per- 
sonality of the owner has found expression, that Mr. Parsons finds his 
approved American examples. 
Not only the broad principles underlying the architecture of the 
garden, but not a little advice and suggestion as to details make this 
work a most helpful and inspiring guide. 
M. D. B. 
"DESIGN IN LANDSCAPE GARDENING" 
By RALPH RODNEY ROOT and CHARLES F. KELLEY 
Century Co.— $2.00 net 
In "Design in Landscape Gardening" the authors have compiled 
their lectures, given at the University of Illinois, into a book of much 
originality, which is one of the first fruits of the new movement to pro- 
vide technical education in landscape gardening, comparable to that in 
architecture. 
An interesting chapter among the six is that on design, which 
insists upon unity, harmony and rhythm. But perhaps the most valu- 
able chapter is that on color, in which are splendid discussions of a 
color chart, and of the large part leaf-color should take in all land- 
scape composition. 
The section on special problems will be of interest to the general 
public, and the illustrations have charm and are well chosen. 
Since the book, to so large an extent, fills a long- felt want, it is 
hoped that the authors will soon be able to revise those portions of the 
text which, to many, seem involved. 
"THE BACK-YARD FARMER" 
By J. WILLARD BOLTE 
Forbes and Co., Chicago 
This little book gives, in an elementary way, the first and simplest 
principles of gardening. The title is an exact description of its intent, 
and many useful hints are dropped as to how to make the best of very 
limited space. 
There is an excellent chapter on "Why Gardens Fail," and direct 
and brief suggestions make smoother the way of the beginner. 
The idea of a real back-yard farm is elaborated by chapters on 
the care of farm and pet stock, and bees and chickens are given their 
share of attention. 
To the beginner who wishes to garden simply but well, the book 
must prove valuable. 
