The Life of an Oak: An Intimate Portrait

The Life of an Oak takes an intimate look at all aspects of the oak tree, from a microscopic examination of its cellular processes to a survey of the grand Diaspora by which members of this remarkable family have spread around the world and diversified. The separate yet exquisitely coordingated development of male and female flowers, the bursting of buds, the outpouring of leaves, and the groping of roots are described in language and art that will enchant the professional and armchair botanist alike.

Glenn Keator is a freelance teacher, botanist, and writer. He has taught courses and led field trips on native plants for the California Academy of Sciences, the Yosemite Association, Golden Gate Park's Strybing Arboretum, and many other arboretums and nature centers around the country. He is the author of several books on plants, including In Full View. He lives in Berkeley, California.

Susan Bazell is an artist who lives in Paradise, California. She has previously illustrated Plants of the East Bay Parks.