A concise illustrated guide that documents and interprets unusually shaped trees throughout New York State, combining an introductory essay on the aesthetic and practical value of trees with photographs submitted to a public contest. It explains possible natural and accidental causes of abnormal growth, catalogs species prone to odd forms—especially elms, maples, and beeches—summarizes judging criteria and prizes, and reproduces prize-winning and notable entries with locations and contributors. The collection emphasizes unusually shaped trees as landmarks, subjects for study, and prompts for public interest in forest observation and conservation.