Whilst doctors may possess the ability to write out prescriptions for sick persons, they may not possess that other form of ability which enables them to write readable books. It is therefore all the more refreshing to find both these abilities combined in one individual. A Physician’s Posy seems more in the nature of belles lettres than a treatise on healing the sick. In its pages the reader will encounter no pseudo-scientific jargon nor multi-syllabic words which no one can pronounce, let alone remember.

Dr. Shepherd has written a fascinating history of her chosen plants and includes personal anecdotes that make her book a joy to read.