Gardens for the Soul, Pamela Woods (Conran Octopus £20).

HERE is a whole new approach to what we can expect from our gardens and the way we design our outdoor living space.

Pamela Woods' focus is on the spiritual and emotional plane, not easy for us English, but a change is ... well you know the rest!

Her discussion on what makes a garden spiritual is based on history, feng shui, and basic common sense.

To achieve the potential of the space she employs several devices, and as a consequence, the curves of a spiral, or the mystery of a labyrinth gives the whole concept of gardening a different dimension. Her graphics are clear and concise, with precise planting detail.

Aside from the spirituality, and for some the mumbo jumbo Pamela is a gifted plantswoman, and knows exactly the planting required for any given area or need. Perfume, form and colour combine to make a healing, yet beautiful space; a space full of energy at one time, and a peaceful and perfect area for meditation for another.

Illustrated with vibrant and colourful photography by John Glover, a photographer of some note, the book is more than a list of what to plant where. For the dedicated gardener it would be a great book to contemplate over the winter months.

This new and interesting style of working in your garden and creating that special feel for your little bit of earth may be considered by some to be precious and a little weird, but you won't know until you try. And you should. Annie Dendy