FLOWER POWER
The Magic of Nature’s Healers
By: Christine Paxmann
Illustrated by: Olaf Hajek
Published: April 14, 2020
Publisher: Prestel Junior
Non-Fiction
Even though this is marketed as a children’s book, adults will appreciate learning the benefits of the flowers and love the gorgeous artwork of Olaf Hajek on the pages. Each flower is given a beautiful two-page spread with historical details and its health benefits.
In the introduction, readers are reminded that years ago, our ancestors only had these types of herbal remedies to cure their ailments. There were no doctors or clinics. Instead, there were healers or medicine men/women who could be called upon to use various parts of plants to hopefully, heal the particular disease. It was also important that they knew which plants were poisonous or would make you sick to your stomach.
Since this is a children’s book, I do want to suggest that parents be extremely clear that most plants and flowers are NOT edible and that children should not touch or eat plants without asking an adult first. I’ve had plenty of run-ins with thistles and poison ivy in my childhood and it was not enjoyable.
One of the flowers featured in the book is the Iowa State Flower, the Wild Rose. The flower produces rose hips that are full of vitamin C. People often use them to make jam or tea.
My mom is a strong believer in the powers of Echinacea or the Coneflower. She takes Echinacea every day to ward off illnesses and anytime she hears sniffles, she is telling us to take it. I have to agree with her that it usually works.
I was unfamiliar with the benefits of Iris roots. The Iris is one of my favorite flower scents and didn’t realize all the uses for iris oil or the root bulbs.
Other flowers discussed include Dandelion, Marigold, Peony, Ginger, and Wild Poppy as well as several others. Olaf Hajek’s artwork is quite amazing. I feel like each page should be framed. The art has almost an old-fashioned and cultural quality that makes each one so unique.
After reading this book, you can take your children to a park, arboretum, or garden center to see these flowers and plants in person and maybe even choose a few to bring home to plant in their own garden. This is an oversized book, more like a coffee-table-type and too gorgeous to hide on a shelf.
To purchase a copy of FLOWER POWER, click the photo below:
Other books you might like:
PIPSIE NATURE DETECTIVE THE LUNCHNAPPER
Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to make a purchase through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.
Posted Under art, Book Review, Children's books, Christine Paxmann, Earth Day, flowers, Kid Konnection, nature, non-fiction, Olaf Hajek
That does look like a book anyone could enjoy. The illustrations look gorgeous!