Trees
Their Natural History

"Peter Thomas has a rare ability to communicate complex biological processes in an accessible way while offering the understanding of a real expert. The first edition succeeded in the author’s aim of bringing together a dispersed literature on the natural history of trees. This edition expands and updates the first edition with recent insights into the biology and ecology of trees and their relationship to us. I consider it to be essential reading for all those with a personal or professional interest in trees and am convinced every reader will gain a deeper understanding of trees from the rich content of this book. Even if you are only casually interested in trees, buy it, read it and be inspired by their fascinating life!"
Andrew Hirons, Myerscough College

"I look forward to second editions because there is always a synthesis of more literature and stronger evidence for hypotheses. This volume lives up to the highest of expectations. It is an encyclopedia of neat ideas on the features of trees. The photography and choice of figures and tables add to the clarity of explanations. The concluding chapter resonates with current societal issues of environmentalism, nature attention deficit, and back-to-nature movements … This contribution speaks to a wide readership of gardeners, students, and naturalists. Dr Thomas is a master communicator in melding the topic of trees into the everyday experiences of the reader. He personalizes science … This book is like visiting a botanical garden with a guide who has travelled the world; and Dr Thomas has travelled the world to find these gems of information. After reading this book the reader will no longer look at a tree with indifference."
Ross W. Wein, Professor Emeritus, University of Alberta

"The best general work on trees to come out in 2014 … this book offers fascinating insights and can be usefully read by anyone, student, amateur or professional, and should be on any reading list."
Pro Arb Magazine

"The much-abused term "well-written" sits very comfortably here; you could buy this book for an aspiring young biologist, a relative with an interest in trees, your local landscape architect or planner … If you bought the first edition, this one is newer and better. If you didn't buy it last time, think again."
Alan Crowden, Bulletin, British Ecological Society