The Orchid Thief

How does Orlean use immersion journalism for different effects in the book? What are the advantages and disadvantages of her approach?

What is the difference between a passion and an obsession? Have you ever collected something or had a passion for something that you feel became an obsession or near-obsession? What are the benefits and drawbacks of an obsession?

How does Orlean depict the natural world and human connections to it? In what ways is the human-nature relationship beneficial, and in what ways is it exploitative?

How does Orlean add depth to the narrative by including long passages on history, botany, and geography, among other things? What is gained by these passages? How do the actions of past and contemporary collectors mirror, or diverge from, one another in her narrative?

Analyze Orlean’s depictions of the Seminole Tribe in the book. In what ways are the tribe’s relationship to the environment different or similar to that of collectors like Laroche? In what ways are their experiences of community different or similar?

One of the book’s key themes centers on The Human Desire for Beauty and Uniqueness. In your view, what current trends and/or obsessions reflect this desire? In what ways has collecting changed since the book was first published?

How do the state of Florida and its people come across in the book? How does Orlean describe them and why do you think she portrays them this way? Do you think her depiction of them is accurate? Why or why not?

In Chapter 10, Orlean describes the agreement known as CITES and how its intention to protect endangered plants and animals has backfired in some cases. What is another law or treaty meant to protect the environment that has had unintended consequences? What could make environmental laws more effective?