Determined to clone an endangered flower—the rare ghost orchid Polyrrhiza lindenii—a deeply eccentric and oddly attractive man named John Laroche leads Orlean on an unforgettable tour of America’s strange flower-selling subculture, through Florida’s swamps and beyond, along with the Seminoles who help him and the forces of justice who fight him. In the end, Orlean—and the reader—will have more respect for underdog determination and a powerful new definition of passion.
Book Club
Every six weeks and with input from the FCV Book Club, we choose a book to read as a group. The books are inspired by both Florida and the work we do. We then meet virtually with each other and discuss the book. You are welcome to participate or simply listen in.
Past Books
Current Book:
The Orchid Thief
A modern classic of personal journalism, The Orchid Thief is Susan Orlean’s wickedly funny, elegant, and captivating tale of an amazing obsession.
Discussion Date
March 11 at 6:00 p.m.