Who, after reading the words, “any tea… can help [people] lose weight,” could stop reading? I admit that I read the book partly while sipping a cup of coffee, but was nevertheless intrigued. Tea can help me lose weight? Give me more energy? The magic of tea, explains author Mark 
Ukra, is that its components counter the potentially harmful effects of caffeine, suppress appetite, and stimulate metabolism. Like other diet books, this one holds out the promise of a lifestyle change that promotes weight loss and overall health through balanced diet and yes, the e-word (exercise). The difference here is tea. The book describes the different types of “true” tea, i.e., those originating from the Camellia sinensis plant; how to buy and brew the perfect pot of tea; and tea’s myriad health benefits. “Teammate profiles” – or personal testimonials to the life-changing power of tea – are sprinkled throughout. The back portion of the book is devoted to recipes in which teas both dry and brewed are incorporated into recipes (such as finely ground Lapsang Souchong mixed with herbs and spices and used as a rub for salmon). Ukra’s main message is that tea can be used as an agent for taking positive charge of your life. His style is conversational, believable, and engaging. The Ultimate Tea Diet is far more than a diet book; it is a window into a lifestyle of health and tea drinking! (This book review was submitted to Harper Collins as part of their First Look program.)
