Back in December of 2021, I published a review of Prof. Matt Ritter‘s 2016 book A Californian’s Guide to the Trees Among Us, a work that admittedly had been in print for some time but having just then recently been brought to my attention I found so impressive and useful that I wanted to make certain my readers were aware of it. Little did I know at the time that Dr. Ritter’s book was scheduled for a new edition.
As of this past July, the new expanded and updated edition A Californian’s Guide to the Trees Among Us is now available. This new edition includes ten newly added species of trees (raising the count to over 160), a fully updated taxonomy and nomenclature of all those listed, a new introduction by the author, and an updating of the content to reflect new trends in urban forestry. Like the previous edition, it is also filled with both photographs and instructive illustrations of the trees discussed – and remember, the idea behind this book that is that it presents its readers with identifications and information about the trees most likely to be seen by someone out and about in California, whether they be native, introduced, or ornamental (the trees, that is, not the people in California).
Being one who is a long-time vociferous advocate of well-written local field guides, I was very impressed with Dr. Ritter’s original book, and upon initial review, I’ve found this new one to be every bit justified as an important expansion and continuation of his work in bringing any and all who are interested in trees to a better understanding of them. I very much look forward to a time when I can return to California and put this new book through its paces.
