Lyle, a horticulturist based in New Zealand, has written an A-Z of fruit and nuts of temperate and tropical regions that's packed with interesting history and facts in addition to lots of practical information for the gardener. Published in an oversized format (8.5x11.5"), there are color photos of each species--over 300 are described--and a detailed introduction to fruits and nuts. The individual species' entries include a full description, with information on leaves, flowers, fruits, harvest, roots, and all the details of cultivation. Inset boxes describe the uses of each. Information is included on similar species and cultivars. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)