Brown provides general distributional information, time of flowering, and habitat requirements for each species as well as a complete list of hybrids and the many different growth and color forms that can make identifying orchids so intriguing. He includes information on 12 species, 2 additional varieties, and 6 hybrids. Wild lady's-slippers grow from Alaska, with the spotted lady's-slipper, "Cypripedium guttatum," to Texas, with the ivory-lipped lady's-slipper, "C. kentuckiense," Most of these species are easy to identify based upon their general appearance, range, and time of flowering. Answer three simple questions-when, where, and how does it grow? Then compare the living plant with the striking photos in these backpack-friendly laminated guides and consult the keys that Brown has created. Following these steps should enable both professional and amateur naturalists to achieve the satisfaction of identifying specific orchids in their native environment.