Who Is Healthy Herb?

Trying to be a cross between Slim Goodbody and Pee Wee Herman, "Healthy Herb," an actor who wears a fruit and vegetable laden costume, attempts to whip a studio audience of kids into a frenzy of fitness with that kind of adult hyperactiveness that comes across as simultaneously forced and fake. The skimpy content involves a few songs, some advice about good eating, a quiz that wouldn't tax a turnip, and the repeated use of the word "jello" which sets the kids quivering and screaming (alà Pee Wee Herman's magic word). There is little sense of timing or rhythm to Herb's presentation, and the show appears to have been shot unrehearsed. Not recommended. Ages 4-9. (R. Pitman)