Short profile text describes the characteristics of a tree's overall shape, height and appearance, needle/leaf, bark, flower, fruit, fall foliage, origin, average lifespan, habitat and region. Common names appear first at the top of the page with botanical names and family classification right underneath in smaller print. At the bottom of the page is a paragraph of Stan's Notes which feature the "gee-wiz" facts of interest, even if the plant is known to be edible or poisonous. This basic information layout is kept consistent throughout the book for each tree. What is not consistent are comments of when in bloom or with berry. A few, though not all trees listed have small insert photos to show fruit and flowers. All trees do have a small insert photo for identifying the bark.

The book has a good introduction and a nice glossary that even gives a tree example for some terminology. Plus there is a checklist at the back. A nice sized, simple, easy reading handbook, kept comprehensible for the average, everyday nature nut. Recommendable as a first-time field guide.