Conifers of the World: The Complete Reference by James E. Eckenwalder Search Amazon for other books by or about James E. Eckenwalder. Rating: Reviewed by: John L. Hoh, Jr.

The conifer (literally "cone-bearer") is an order of plant. Not all are "evergreen" and not all have needles. Some have broad leaves. You could say they are related by the fact of their reproduction, that is they bear comes that creates new plants.

Chapter 1 details "Conifer Classification" and instructs the reader to the nuances that help determine if a plant is a conifer.

Chapter 8 is the largest chapter and details "Conifer Genera and Species." These are listed in alphabetical order. Of course the alphabetical order uses the Latin names of each genera and species. So don't be looking for "Jack Pine" under "J". Maps help plot the places on the earth where the various genera and species can be found.

Throughout the book are illustrations and black and white photos to aid the reader in knowing what the various conifers look like.

At the end of the book are two important sections. A glossary defines the many terms in the book. An index helps the reader locate specific information in the book.

Overall this book is an educational insight into a common and popular family of trees. Dare I say this would make an excellent gift beneath the Christmas tree?