A Kid’s Herb Book

Lesley Tierra
Robert D. Reed Publishers (2005)
ISBN 9781885003362
Reviewed by Juanita Watson for Reader Views (4/07)

Lesley Tierra’s book is just as the subtitle suggests, “for children of all ages.” This fantastic herbal showcases 16 commonly used medicinal plants that could realistically form the core of a home herbal pharmacy.  It is truly a great introduction to the world of herbs.

I adore Tierra’s original stories for each herb which will stretch children’s imaginations while connecting them deeper to the spirit of each plant.  Lesley pays special attention to warnings where indicated, explains specific doses for children, and includes a convenient quick guide to treating illnesses (matching symptoms with herbal remedy).

Beautiful drawings adorn nearly every page of this book bringing each and every page to life.  As an adult I appreciate the visual aspect, so I can only imagine that children will fall for them too – maybe even color in some of the bigger pictures adding an artistic element to the book itself.

Tierra’s includes sing-along songs for each herb (with accompanying sheet music), as well as a vast array of crafts, projects, activities and herbal recipes.  This author hasn’t left anything out, and it doesn’t surprise me knowing her background and the 15 years spent researching this book. Tierra is a nationally renowned practicing herbalist with family and friends in the herb world, many of whom somehow contributed to this book.

The thing that really stood out for me about “A Kid’s Herb Book” is the way the author attempts to connect the reader (parents, children, and ultimately, that inner child within all of us) with the amazing life force found in herbs.  This book is a timely bridge that serves to unite the heart of each reader with the natural world in fun, useful, creative and joy-filled ways.  I feel that this is what makes “A Kid’s Herb Book” unique in comparison to many other herb books on the shelves today. 

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