Donkin, R.A.

Manna: An Historical Geography.

The Hague: Dr. W. Junk B.V. Publishers, 1980.

Biogeographica Vol. 17. Octavo, 161 pages. First edition. Review copy, with the publisher's slip laid-in. The single most thorough study of the foodstuff manna, referenced in the Biblical Exodus story but also present in the literature of Persian, Sumero-Akkadian, Mesopotamian, Egyptian and other ancient cultures. While manna remains not fully understood, it is generally accepted that it is one of two foodstuffs: a resin secreted from plants including the tamarisk tree; or the excretions, sometimes called honeydew, of the insects of the Rhynchota family. The author examines linguistic, literary, geographical and botanical evidence around the globe. The book also includes an extensive bibliography. A fine copy in black and white printed orange cloth. With the bookplate of Alan Davidson to the front pastedown.