First published in 1917. 40 color illustrations. "To really understand what the wild flowers are doing, what the scheme of each one is, besides looking beautiful, is to give one a broader sympathy with both man and Nature and to add a real interest and joy to life which cannot be too widely shared. " According to Wikipedia: "Nellie Blanchan De Graff (October 23, 1865 – February 21, 1918) was a United States scientific historian and nature writer who wrote books on gardening and birds using the penname Neltje Blanchan. Her work is known for its synthesis of scientific interest with poetic phrasing. She was born in Chicago to Liverius De Graff and Alice Fair. She was educated at St. John's in New York City and Misses Masters' School in Dobbs Ferry , New York."