Pros:
1) I cannot say enough positive things about the photos in this book! In my experiences, I have found most "herbal recipe" books have low quality photographs, if any at all. The pictures in this book practically jump off the pages! From a variety of close up shots and angles of each profiled plant, to pictures of finished recipes so amazingly displayed I want to eat/wear/use NOW! ;) This book is worth purchasing for the photos alone, but thankfully there are more good things too!
2) This book is a lovely blend of childhood whimsy and interests and the practical and useful desires of adulthood. As each chapter delves into a different herb, you are given healthful recipes and remedies that highlight that specific herb. Additionally, in each chapter, there are activities that will engage the imaginations and creativities of children and those young at heart, all with an herbal/outdoorsy feel.
3) Each herb is introduced in a "first person" format, before going into details on where to find them, how to identify, parts to use, lookalikes, etc. I find that brief introduction to be an adorable and unique way to showcase each plant, and to give it it's own "voice"! It's also a very engaging way to draw in the interests of children, as that wording readily catches and maintains their attention!
4) Each recipe is clearly outlined, easy to understand, and most (if not all), are easy to prepare. But don't be fooled by their ease, these are still very useful and wonderful recipes you will want in your life! The author has simply removed the mystery and feelings of potentially being overwhelmed when jumping into DIY herbal remedies.
Cons:
Not really a "con", but more of a "heads up", this book is not going to be "helpful" for experienced herbalists. It will still be an enjoyable and engaging read, but you likely won't learn many new things.
In short, this book is amazing, I am loving it so much!
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From the Publisher
Flower and Leaf Paper Dolls
This trio of paper dolls is ready to play! Dress them up with pressed leaves and flowers, tree branches, moss, or an acorn cap. Create flower bonnets and bloomers, herbal overalls and bunny ears, or leafy shoes and fairy wings. Photocopies of Herbal Paper Dolls included.
Educate yourself before you set out to forage. Know how to positively identify the plants you are foraging and be absolutely certain of any dangerous lookalikes.
Know your local toxic plants. Be on the lookout for poison ivy, poison oak, wild parsnip, and other potentially harmful plants found in your region.
Foraging Basics
Ready to get started? Wait! There are a few things to know before you grab your basket and head for the woods. If you choose to forage some or all of the herbs for your recipes, always follow these simple guidelines to protect yourself, the plants, and the earth.
- Be smart: Prepare for your time in the woods before you head outside!
- Be safe: Your safety is your first priority. Stay healthy by following the steps below.
- Be respectful: Respect landowners, plants, and the earth.
Elderberry Switchel
Active Time: Less than 20 minutes, not including foraging or drying time TOTAL TIME: 12 hours | YIELD: 2 quarts
A sweet and tangy treat, switchel might be the original so drink. Made with apple cider vinegar, fresh ginger, and honey, it’s the most delicious way to stay hydrated on a hot summer day. Switchel recipes date back at least to the early days of the US colonies, and have been enjoyed in North America for hundreds of years. (Laura Ingalls Wilder and Pa drink switchel while haying in the book The Long Winter.) My version includes elderberries for an immune-boosting punch. Add a pinch of unrefined sea salt and baking soda, and it makes a wonderful alternative to sports drinks.
Instructions
1. Combine the elderberries, ginger, honey or maple syrup, and vinegar in a half-gallon mason jar, or divide evenly between two quart-sized jars.
2. Muddle the berries with the back of a wooden spoon, pressing gently to release some juices.
3. Fill with water to the shoulders and stir to combine.
4. Cover and refrigerate overnight. (You can rush it, but the flavor won’t be as nice.)
5. Strain, taste for sweetness and adjust if desired, and serve.
Storage Switchel will keep for 4 days in the refrigerator.
Apple cider vinegar may not be suitable for some individuals with acid reflux, heartburn, or indigestion.
Variation
Experiment with adding other seasonal herbs and berries as well, such as rinsed staghorn sumac berries, fresh wild raspberries, or foraged mint. (If you are using sumac berries, strain them through a flour sack towel to remove the hairs.)
- 1/3 cup raw apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup fresh or frozen elderberries, or ¼ cup dried
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or raw honey
- 1½ tablespoons fresh, grated gingerroot
- Approximately 2 quarts fresh water
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A beautiful, lovely book, Rachel has written an herbal companion not only for families but for the beginning herbalist too. Storytelling is a lost art and Rachel does it well here as she teaches about each plant. The recipes are incredibly accessible, something I have always loved about her teaching methods.
Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2018
Reviewed in the United States on October 23, 2018
Reviewed in the United States on November 29, 2018
Reviewed in the United States on November 29, 2018
Reviewed in the United States on October 26, 2018
Reviewed in the United States on November 29, 2018
Reviewed in the United States on May 29, 2020
Great book for preteens and early teenagers. I wouldn't go below 9 years old, since the book has a somewhat advanced vocabulary.
The book is colorful, full of Susun Weed style herbal wisdom. The only thing I can't figure out is this one word, used throughout the book. "Councesy".
I can only think it's an arcaic word, or a typo of some sort. When I googled it, the first thing to pop up is this book. Very awkward when reading the book to my daughter.
The book is colorful, full of Susun Weed style herbal wisdom. The only thing I can't figure out is this one word, used throughout the book. "Councesy".
I can only think it's an arcaic word, or a typo of some sort. When I googled it, the first thing to pop up is this book. Very awkward when reading the book to my daughter.
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on November 29, 2018
Top reviews from other countries
amy
A very informative book for a beginner herbalist
Reviewed in Canada on August 3, 2019