World Of Herbs

Based on her best-selling book of the same name, author and host Lesley Bremness guides viewers on a fascinating journey through the world of herbs in this five-part series, nicely packaged on three videotapes. In each program, Bremness points out goodies in her own garden and kitchen, and interviews a few other experts as well. In the first volume, Seeds & Leaves, viewers learn that anise seed is actually better bait in a mousetrap than cheese, and that Charlemagne was so keen on leeks that he ordered everyone to grow leeks on their roofs (hence the name "house leeks"). The second volume, Flowers & Treasures Underground, offers viewers some excellent ideas for creating potpourris; conducts a literal garden party, in which the refreshments are nasturtium, tom thumb lettuce, scones with rose petal jam, and other edible flower delights; and imparts such useful information as the fact that the skirret root is "less likely to be windy." The final volume, Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, discusses various oils used in massage and their properties, claiming that frankincense is useful for "people stuck in the past" (this oil could possibly do wonders at ALA Headquarters). The last volume also contains an added segment shot after the series called: "More About Essential Oils," which offers more detail on a wide variety of herbal oils. Although there is an element of "how-to" to the series, the overall approach is more informational than instructional. An excellent series, and a surefire circulator in public libraries. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (See SHAKESPEARE'S WORLD for availability.)