Walking the World in Wonder: A Children's Herbal Book

This was a terrific book!

To give a point of reference, I am a huge herbal enthusiast. Sometimes this enthusiasm can go to the point of boring others, especially my husband and kids who don't wish to stop a hike or stroll in the woods for every leaf and flower the way I do. So I've been wishing for a book that might offer to my kids, in a more interesting way, the same love of plants I have. And then I found it!

With simple but well-written descriptions and insights on each of 67 easily found wild and garden herbs, plus quick instructions for their uses as food, magic, and medicine, this book is sure to get both kids and adults outdoors to hunt for herbs! Ms. Hopman writing is as clear as the beautiful photos and her information is fun and sweet without being too childish for older readers. It's obvious that she both enjoys and respects nature.

Some of the best things about this book are the simplest:

It's arranged by season, showing the herbs as you will see them at that time of year.

There's an "frowny" icon by the name of plants that should not be ingested--nobody could mistake that!

The notes in the front are brief but informative: important tips on proper gathering, identification, and safety with medicinal usage.

And a cute checklist for your kids to tick when they've discovered each plant for themselves!


I wanted to read this first before our kids to be sure the author and I had similar views. When I read her words that a weed is only a plant whose uses haven't been identified yet, I knew I was in the right place!

If you love herbs and want to share that love with another generation, or if you are new to herbs at whatever age, get yourself a copy of this book!