This book is written for the general public and for all who are interested in our living world. Mechanization, industrialization and "progress" have produced concentrations of concrete and increasingly hazy skies; and many people feel the need to seek out green places, breathe clean air and gaze at a clear sky. This book is intended for those people: for all who wish to enjoy, discover and appreciate the trees around them.

In addition to making tree identification easier, it is hoped that this guide will awaken in the reader a new interest in the environment. It is also intended as a starting point, designed to arouse the readers' curiosity and encourage the consultation of more advanced works. These works will in turn aquatint them even better with our Canadian tree flora and thus, perhaps, further its conservation.

The Identification Guide to the Trees of Canada identifies every tree that grows in Canada, and features a location map showing where it grows, as well as a detailed study of its leaves and fruit. The book also describes some common ornamentals not native to Canada.

Accompanying text contain a wealth of information, including origins of Latin, English and French names, historical data, economic importance, diseases, toxicity, and medicinal properties. Also included are useful tips for tree-related activities, such as how to start a leaf collection or herbarium, and how to determine the age of a tree.

Hundreds of drawings illustrate leaf variations within the same species, as well as twigs, flowers, fruits, barks, and tree silhouettes which help to differentiate species from one another.

This guide is easy to use, because trees with similar characteristics are grouped together.

An extensive introductory essay explains the identification method used and shows readers, no matter how brief their previous experience, how to use the guide with ease and pleasure.

A beautifully illustrated and unique addition to the library of anyone.

Jean Lauriault is a Fitzhenry and Whiteside author.

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