He includes a plant encyclopedia of trees and shrubs native to the Upper South that attract a variety of birds, butterflies, and mammals. Barnes's plans and plant lists can also be used to create a woodland, a prairie, or a water garden. Also included are tips for birdwatchers of all levels and suggestions for deterring common garden pests.
The book offers a detailed history of the 20th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, drawing from articles by Civil War veteran J. D. Barnes published in 1887-1888. It includes photographs, extensive notes, a bibliography, and an index, providing a comprehensive look at the experiences and contributions of this regiment during the Civil War. The inclusion of personal insights from a veteran adds a unique perspective to the historical narrative.