Landscape

Library Journal

Hometime, a mini-conglomerate in its own right, is primarily a popular how-to program shown on many PBS stations. Its hosts are affable and capable home-improvement project initiators, coordinators, and demonstrators. Dean Johnson, the lead host, is a videographer, but he also has extensive experience as a builder. Robin Hartl is trained as an actress, but her project skill has increased over the years, and she provides careful instruction in various techniques while lending encouragement to low-skilled, or first-time, home remodelers. These four volumes, the first of a projected 12, reflect an attempt to tap a market different from, or at least larger than, the audience for the half-hour TV show. The style here reflects the style of the hosts, and the hundreds of illustrations are sometimes taken from the show. Each book treats a particular area of typical remodeling and is useful for focus since most people plan projects in this way. However, only one project is given for each room, providing little inspiration for readers trying to envision various possibilities. A number of books currently on the market, many with similar brand names attached, do much the same thing as these books. This series is strong, though perhaps not an initial purchase, and should appeal to those who enjoy the show and want more information in a format other than video. [For a guide to basic home improvement standards, see "Getting a Fix on Your Home Repair Collection," LJ 2/1/97, p. 51-53.--Ed.]--Alexander Hartmann, INFOPHILE, Williamsport, PA