The Wildflower Field Guide and Press

Jean Free, formerly an elementary-school teacher-librarian, is currently
a library consultant in Ontario.

Accompanying this book is blotting paper and a heavy-duty (plastic)
flower press with cardboard sections, between which flowers are inserted
for pressing. The package is a guaranteed winner for 5- to 10-year-olds
who are interested in botany. Adults will be impressed with the
practical, easy-to-use guide and craft activities.

The text provides information on the anatomy of a wildflower, as well
as tips on identifying 28 common backyard, meadow, and woodland
flowering plants. Also included are ideas for sketching, for recording
observations on insects or birds visiting the plant, for assembling
plant-collecting supplies, and for using pressed flowers for notepaper,
bookmarks, and greeting cards. Each page has information on blooming
time, habitat, alternate names, appeal to animals, and whether the plant
is edible. Clear, colorful drawings help young readers to locate
information on the plant they have found. The easy-to-use press comes
with large, chunky screw-in bolts to hold the flowers, blotting papers,
and corrugated cardboard together.

While this book-press may not be appropriate for public libraries
because of the difficulties posed by circulation, it would be an
excellent instructional choice for school libraries, or personal choice
for youngsters, stimulating interest in both handicrafts and nature.
Highly recommended.