I'm interested in this, too. I'm verrrrry slowly making my way through "Botany for Gardeners" http://www.amazon.com/gp... - Spidra Webster

I like this book for plant identification, but I'm not sure how thoroughly it covers the Midwest: http://www.amazon.com/Wildflo... - John (bird whisperer)

Check out iTunes University and Open University to see what they have that might fit the bill for you. - Spidra Webster

Thanks! Going to check out the university library today. I'm also interested in a book on socializing with trees, and the finer aspects of caressing plants, but I'm pretty sure I'm going to have to write that one ;-P - Lo

Julia Butterfly Hill lived in a tree for a couple years. She named it and has talked about it as an entity so her book may be the closest thing: http://www.amazon.com/gp... - Spidra Webster

Thanks for the tip, Spidra. I got "Botany for Gardeners" from the library, and it's great! I also got some textbooks, some more hippie stuff, and a David Attenborough book which is like Planet Earth you can read. I love it! - Lo

Glad to hear it. I wish I were better at making my way through that book. I blame internet addiction. If I could afford another trip, I'd love to bring some books and some art materials and do a lot of the things I don't get done at home due to my living arrangements. Let us know how you like the other stuff you check out! - Spidra Webster