Coastal Giants: The Greatest Living Things on Earth

Truthfully advertised as a "timeless journey of the past and the present through the California redwoods," this beautifully photographed tape could serve as a model for the natural wonders tourism genre. In step-by-step, organized fashion, the producers cover amazing ground in a short 47 minutes (and all for $14.95!): the physiology of these trees from seedling to sentinel; a look at their environment; an explanation of the way they are measured and dated; the history of their logging, re-growth, and preservation; the parks and preserves where visitors may find them (complete with, for once, a map!); and some of the, uh, unusual (read: tacky) attractions and souvenirs made from them. Featuring great graphics, a beautifully coordinated script, illuminating historical photos, and an obvious regard for its topic, this production is toweringly recommended, especially for travel collections. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: P. (K. Glaser)