BOOK CLUB

Japanese Zen Gardens by Yoko Kawaguchi (Frances Lincoln, $32.99) Those who have marvelled at the perfection and restraint of traditional Japanese gardens — with their raked stones and plants in miniature — will love this book, which offers insight into their design and the influence of Zen Buddhist philosophy. Beautifully photographed, it includes gardens located within Buddhist temples, making it a handy travel guide of sorts for those looking to explore this very distinct aspect of Japanese culture.