It's nearly impossible to review the work of a writer of this stature; he's literally a saint of haiku, so what could I have to say about his poetry other than that it's exquisite? There are other things to be said, though:

The translations are amazing -- rich and beautiful. The accompanying notes are enormously useful; as a plant person, i especially like that the many plants in the poems are identified by scientific names where possible. The original poems in Japanese are included as well, making this an excellent edition for serious study of Basho's work. And finally, the illustrations are marvelous; the whole book is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the mind. All in all, this is a superb edition of Basho's work for those new to it as well as for long-time admirers. ( )