A need has long existed for a book such as “The Civilized Jungle,” Tropical Plants, Facts & Fun (Volume I)”. It is written simply, explaining tropical plants in an uncomplicated and sometimes humorous manner. Tommy treats his plants with respect for what they are - living entities with a purpose for existence. Accordingly, his descriptions are such that we all can fast and easily understand their physical wants, needs and individual “personalities”. These tropical bushes, flowers, palms, plants, trees, succulents, vines and more, are superbly presented via his descriptive painting of “word pictures,” accompanied by exceptional photographs, in a way that allows us all to come to appreciate their individual, unique characteristics. This is an easy - and fun - way to expand one’s awareness of some of Nature’s most spectacular tropical creations. Like his stories written in war-torn Iraq, he has striven to reach the soul of the subject and bare it to his readership. In approximately 750 words, Tommy has been able to well capture the unique essence of each plant and make it meaningful and easy to appreciate by his readers.