Life in a Gall also looks at the predators, parasitoids, inquilines, kleptoparasites and micro-organisms that prey on gall-inducing insects and the ways the insects defend themselves from these enemies. It covers the problems gall-inducing insects can cause for agriculture, forestry and horticulture, and gives examples of several pest species. On the positive side, the book describes the essential services gall-inducing insects provide by pollinating figs, controlling invasive weeds and contributing to indigenous food.

The final chapter provides tips for people who want to collect and study galls, and shows that answering many of the questions still surrounding gall-inducing insects is not restricted to professional scientists but can be achieved by diligent amateurs too.

• Offers a unique understanding of Australian plant galls and the little-known insects that induce them.
• Provides tips for people who want to collect and study galls

The language is simple and scientific terms have been kept to a minimum, new concepts are introduced in simple terms with the scientific term in brackets. An extensive glossary is also supplied."
RG Richardson, Plant Protection Quarterly, pp. 116, Vol.27(3) 2012

"Blanche provides a concise, nontechnical description of galls and gall inducers that should be readable by almost anyone. It is well written and free from errors. The text is supported by a glossary and an index.

A real strength of the book is the photography; it is extremely well illustrated."
John L. Capinera, Florida Entomologist, Volume 95(4), December 2012

"This book is both highly readable and scientifically informative, with its appeal enhanced by the numerous excellent colour photographs (many of them contributed by recognised experts in the insect groups depicted) and clear diagrams that adorn each page.

It is also very well produced. I have no hesitation in recommending the book as a significant summary and introduction to the variety of gall insects in Australia, and of wide interest to naturalists of many persuasions."
TR New, The Victorian Naturalist, pp. 215-216, Vol 129 (6), December 2012

"I can highly recommend this book. You will learn heaps, as I did. It is a short book but it is crammed with useful and interesting information. After reading it, you'll find yourself noticing galls everywhere, and you might even find yourself observing a few and wanting them develop. Life in all its variations and intricacies is just amazing, and galls are full of life, and they are now interesting too. I'm now hanging out for the ID book for Victorian galls!"
Russell Best, Growing Australian, September 2012, pp. 13

"Learn how gall-inducing insects can be beneficial. Marvel at the life cycle of the fig wasp. Be amazed by the schoolkids who discovered a new species of gall wasp and named it after Shrek."
Denis Crawford, Gardening Australia Magazine, p. 88, September 2012