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Item #:
3935872
The Orchid Thief: A True Story of Beauty and Obsession (Ballantine Reader's Circle) Paperback January 4, 2000
85% of respondents would recommend this to a friend
Item #:
3935872
KES 1585
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What Stands Out
True Crime Narrative
Engages readers with a captivating true story that intertwines passion, crime, and the allure of rare orchids, appealing to those who love real-life mysteries.
Literary Excellence
Written by Susan Orlean, this book delivers beautifully crafted prose, rich descriptions, and insightful observations, attracting readers who appreciate high-quality literature and storytelling.
Nature and Culture
Explores the intersection of nature and obsession, offering unique perspectives on humanity's relationship with beauty, ideal for readers interested in environmental themes and cultural critiques.
Product Details
- NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK • THE BASIS FOR THE FILM ADAPTATION DIRECTED BY SPIKE JONZE AND STARRING NICOLAS CAGE AND MERYL STREEPThe “eccentric, illuminating, and hilarious” (New York Daily News) true story of beauty and obsession in the swamps of Florida and the impassioned individuals who risk everything for the ultimate prize: a rare ghost orchid“Fascinating . . . an engrossing journey full of theft, hatred, greed, jealousy, madness, and backstabbing.”—Los Angeles TimesMeet John Laroche, a deeply eccentric and oddly attractive renegade plant dealer. In 1994, Laroche and three Seminole men were arrested with rare ghost orchids—Polyrrhiza lindenii—they had stolen from a wild swamp in South Florida. Laroche had planned to clone the endangered orchids and sell them for a small fortune to impassioned buyers.In The Orchid Thief, acclaimed journalist Susan Orlean follows Laroche through swamps and into the eccentric world of Florida’s orchid collectors, a subculture of aristocrats, fanatics, and smugglers whose obsession with plants is all-consuming. This unforgettable tour of America’s strange flower-selling subculture becomes even more bizarre as Orlean details how the head of a famous Seminole chief came to be displayed in the front window of a local pharmacy, how seven hundred iguanas were smuggled into Florida, and the case of the only known extraterrestrial plant crime. A modern classic of personal journalism, The Orchid Thief is a wickedly funny, elegant, and captivating tale of an amazing obsession.
| Publisher | Ballantine Books |
| Publication date | January 4, 2000 |
| Edition | 1st Ballantine Ed: Jan. 2000 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 320 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 044900371X |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0449003718 |
| Item Weight | 2.31 pounds (1.05 kg) |
| Dimensions | 5.49 x 0.72 x 8.25 inches (13.9 x 1.8 x 21 cm) |
Who Should Buy?
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Nature Enthusiasts
Ideal for those passionate about botany and the beauty of orchids, enhancing their appreciation for plants.
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True Crime Fans
Engaging for readers who enjoy true crime narratives, combining elements of obsession and the fascinating world of orchid theft.
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Literary Readers
A good fit for readers who appreciate literary nonfiction, weaving stories of human obsession with captivating prose.
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Casual Readers
May not appeal to casual readers looking for light entertainment or quick reads, as it involves deep themes.
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Action Lovers
Readers seeking fast-paced action or thrillers may find this slow-paced narrative less engaging and exciting.
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Non-Botanical Interest
Not suitable for those uninterested in plants or horticulture, as it centers around the world of orchids.
Product Description
Have any Query? Chat with us
Customer Questions & Answers
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Question:
What is the central theme of The Orchid Thief?
Answer: The Orchid Thief delves into themes of obsession, beauty, and the lengths to which individuals will go to satisfy their desires. Written by Susan Orlean, the narrative uncovers the captivating world of orchid collectors while paralleling it with the life of a notorious criminal. It explores how beauty can lead to obsession, ultimately questioning the value we place on nature. Readers fascinated by the intersection of passion and ethics in pursuit of beauty will find this book engaging. -
Question:
Who is the author of The Orchid Thief?
Answer: The Orchid Thief is authored by Susan Orlean, a noted journalist and writer renowned for her in-depth storytelling and keen observations of human nature. Orlean intertwines her experiences with the world of orchid enthusiasts and the story of John Laroche, a man obsessed with rare orchids. Through her eloquent narrative style, she captures both the allure of orchids and the complexities of obsession, drawing readers into a thought-provoking journey about one of nature’s most exquisite flowers. -
Question:
Is The Orchid Thief based on a true story?
Answer: Yes, The Orchid Thief is based on a true story. It chronicles the real-life events surrounding John Laroche, who was arrested for stealing rare orchids from a preserve in Florida. Susan Orlean employs a blend of investigative journalism and personal narrative to explore how this incident reflects broader themes of obsession and beauty. The book not only tells Laroche’s story but also highlights the larger cultural phenomenon of orchid collecting, making it a compelling read for those interested in true crime and nature. -
Question:
What type of readers would enjoy The Orchid Thief?
Answer: The Orchid Thief appeals to a diverse audience, particularly readers interested in nature, conservation, and human psychology. Those fascinated by true stories and narratives that weave together personal anecdotes and cultural insights will also find it captivating. Additionally, individuals intrigued by the intricacies of obsession and the beauty of orchids will appreciate Orlean's skillful storytelling. This book serves as a perfect choice for book clubs or solo readers seeking an engaging exploration of life's complexities through the lens of a unique obsession. -
Question:
What can readers learn from The Orchid Thief?
Answer: Readers can learn about the fascinating world of orchids, including their ecological significance and the cultural practices surrounding orchid collecting. The book also serves as a meditation on obsession—how desires can shape identity and choices. Furthermore, it invites readers to ponder the moral implications of collecting rare species and the fragility of biodiversity. Such insights may inspire readers to reflect on their own passions and challenges in balancing desire with ethical considerations regarding nature. -
Question:
Are there any notable characters in The Orchid Thief?
Answer: Yes, The Orchid Thief features several notable characters, with John Laroche being the most prominent. His obsession with rare orchids drives the narrative, providing an intimate look at his motivations and complexities. Susan Orlean herself plays a role within the story, as she weaves her own experiences into the journey, creating a multifaceted exploration of the topic. The book introduces other orchid enthusiasts and collectors, painting a vivid portrait of a community shaped by their love for these stunning flowers. -
Question:
What is the writing style of Susan Orlean in The Orchid Thief?
Answer: Susan Orlean's writing style in The Orchid Thief is characterized by rich, descriptive language that brings the world of orchids to life. She combines meticulous research with personal reflections, resulting in an engaging narrative that flows smoothly. Orlean employs vivid imagery and immersive storytelling techniques to draw readers into the emotional landscape of her subjects. Her knack for capturing detail and nuance makes the story not only informative but also an enchanting reading experience, suitable for both casual and serious readers alike. -
Question:
How does The Orchid Thief relate to environmental issues?
Answer: The Orchid Thief highlights significant environmental issues surrounding the preservation of rare species and the impacts of human obsession on ecosystems. Through the lens of orchid collecting, the book sheds light on the importance of biodiversity and the delicate balance between nature and human activity. It raises awareness about the threats posed by poaching and habitat destruction, prompting readers to consider their roles in protecting the environment. This makes it a pertinent read for anyone concerned about conservation and ecological responsibility. -
Question:
What are some discussion topics for book clubs reading The Orchid Thief?
Answer: Book clubs can explore several thought-provoking discussion topics related to The Orchid Thief. Some potential areas include the nature of obsession and its impact on personal relationships, the ethics of collecting rare species, and the symbolism of orchids in various cultures. Additionally, readers can discuss Susan Orlean's narrative style and how effectively she intertwines personal and factual storytelling. The community dynamics within the orchid-collecting world also provide rich material for debate and reflection among participants. -
Question:
Where can I buy The Orchid Thief: A True Story of Beauty and Obsession in Kenya?
Answer: You can buy The Orchid Thief: A True Story of Beauty and Obsession from Ubuy, which provides a convenient platform for acquiring this book. Ubuy offers a user-friendly shopping experience, ensuring you can easily find this captivating title and have it delivered to your address in Kenya. Their extensive selection and reliable service make them a great choice for readers looking to immerse themselves in this intriguing narrative.
Flowers Editorial Review
The book "The Orchid Thief" by Susan Orlean seems to have received mostly positive reviews from customers. Many readers found the book thoroughly enjoyable, fascinating, and beautifully written. Some called it a favorite and a must-read, as it explores themes of obsession, beauty, and the search for more in life. The book was described as paced like fiction with a touch of reality and was said to have captured the unique strangeness of the orchid-obsessed main character. Readers also appreciated the vivid descriptions of South Florida and found the overall experience memorable and engaging. However, there was one reviewer who received a used copy of the book that was severely marked up and distracting, despite the story itself being excellent.
Customer Reviews & Ratings
1695 customers ratings
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5 Star
48%
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4 Star
26%
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3 Star
17%
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2 Star
6%
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1 Star
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Pros
- Thoroughly enjoyable and fascinating read
- Beautifully written with vivid descriptions of South Florida
- Captures themes of obsession, beauty, and the search for more in life
Cons
- Some received used copies in poor condition with markings and underlining that were distracting
Product Price History
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KES 1585
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Features & Benefits
- NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
- A captivating tale of an amazing obsession
- Revisits an unforgettable world with a powerful new definition of passion
- Stylishly written, whimsical yet sophisticated
- Engrossing journey full of theft, greed, and madness
- National treasure with vivid, pitch-perfect prose