This is an immensely readable book (especially for a reference book!), structured by season of use. It includes photos, folklore and historical recipes taken from their original source, references to archaeological finds, and modern herbalist references. As a further means to value Europe's trees and woodlands, and understand their heritage, I read this cover to cover (though I can't claim to have retained all the information!). Some of the history is bound to provide you with, "Aha!", moments, from observations of how you've noticed your livestock browse on trees and shrubs, your observations of how different regions in Europe use and values their trees and shrubs, to where different trees grow in our landscape and what landscape features they're associated with. From ash to willow, add to your knowledge and understanding of cultivation, cookery, foraging, crafts, history, botany, medicinal use and mythology!