#8099

Mentioned in 5 episodes

The Orchid Thief

Book • 1998

The Orchid Thief is a non-fiction book by Susan Orlean that delves into the world of orchid collecting.

The story centers around John Laroche, a charismatic plant dealer who was arrested in 1994 for stealing ghost orchids from the Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve in Florida.

Orlean's investigation leads her into a fascinating subculture of orchid enthusiasts, including aristocrats, fanatics, and smugglers.

The book explores the history of orchid collecting, the legal and environmental implications of Laroche's actions, and the author's own encounters with various figures in the orchid world.

It is a tale of obsession, passion, and the sometimes dark and humorous aspects of human fixation.

Mentioned by

Padraic Scanlan

Mentioned in 5 episodes

Mentioned by

David Perell

as he reads an excerpt from the book's lead.

Susan Orlean: Award-Winning Writer Explains Her Entire Process | How I Write

Mentioned by James Lang as an example of a great nonfiction writer who is willing to give the reader a glimpse into who they are and what drives them.

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Mentioned as the book that "Orchid Fever" later became, the original publication where John LaRoche appeared.

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Mentioned by

Padraic Scanlan

as a really zippy, really fun book.

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Mentioned as Susan Orlean's best-known book, before discussing her memoir "Joyride".

1065: A Visit With Michael Bamberger

Mentioned by

Joumana Khatib

as Susan Orlean's book that was adapted into a Spike Jonze movie.

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Mentioned by

Susan Orlean

as one of her most famous stories and a book that inspired a film adaptation.

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Mentioned by Michelle Norris as one of

Susan Orlean

's New York Times bestselling books, later adapted into a film.

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Mentioned as one of

Susan Orlean

's seven books and the catalyst that changed her life.

Susan Orlean: Why being curious gives you a richer life

Recommended by

Jess Zafarris

for those interested in orchids or horticulture and botany.

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Mentioned by

Gary Whitta

while discussing the movie adaptation of the book.

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