Each bookstore will act as a concierge, recommending "the book you should read now" to FASHION HEADLINE readers. Every Wednesday, we will introduce recommended books from Keibunsha Ichijoji Store (10 Ichijoji Furadono-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto), a Kyoto-based shop specializing in books and all things related to books.

■ "ENCYCLOPEDIA OF FLOWERS 2: Botanical Encyclopedia" by Azuma Makoto (author) and Shiiki Shunsuke (photographer)

Although titled "botanical encyclopedia," the photographs are completely unaccompanied by text (though credits are provided at the end of the book). This stunning volume features a series of calmly drawn images of blooming plants in clusters, setting it apart from the specimen photographs found in botanical atlases.

The depictions of flowers by author Azuma Makoto, who runs an "haute couture florist," and photographer Shiiki Shunsuke, which are neither horticultural nor artistic, have a powerful impact that cannot be found anywhere else. This is neither an illustrated encyclopedia nor a photo book; it is an experiential book that allows you to open the pages and enjoy the fragrant aura of flowers. It would also be fun to give this book as a gift instead of a bouquet of flowers.

[Book Information]
"ENCYCLOPEDIA OF FLOWERS 2 Botanical Encyclopedia"
Author: Azuma Makoto
Photography: Shiiki Shunsuke
Publisher: Seigensha
Language: Japanese
Softcover / 512 pages / 250x170x40mm
Published: 2012
Price: 3,200 yen