Leaves are so commonplace and plentiful that we take them for granted. Yet without them we would perish.

In an easy, conversational tone, noted author James Poling presents a detailed account of these green powerhouses and their dynamic role in supporting life on earth. Illustrated with both photographs and diagrams, Leaves is a thorough study of the structure and biological behavior of leaves, their evolution and specialization. From cacti spines to the bizarre, stone-like South African lithops, Mr. Poling describes the fascinating phenomena of adaptation which has preserved green life in nearly every corner of the globe.

A timely book, which pulls no punches about the vital need to preserve our ecological systems, Leaves is engrossing reading.

From the dust jacket