Gardening is a great subject for Children’s books–I’ve picked out four to highlight here. I like them all and they nicely illustrate a few of the types of gardening books available.
How does your garden grow by Clare Matthews is a good nonfiction book about gardening with kids. It’s practical and clear yet inspiring. Exactly the encouragement and direction we need for getting started with kids in the garden.
Mama, is it summer yet? by Nikki McClure features her gorgeous paper cuts (she uses an X-acto knife and single, large sheets of paper!) and a classic story of a child waiting and watching as the seasons change. Nikki’s work–in posters, cards as well as other picture books–is amazing. I think her illustrations of mothers and children are especially moving.
In The Imaginary Garden by Andrew Larsen, a little girl’s grandfather has had to move into an apartment, away from his garden. Although they’re sad, grandfather and granddaughter work together to create a fantastical, gorgeous, exhuberant garden that is exactly perfect.
I’m including The Humming Room by Ellen Potter because it is a great reminder that isn’t just a topic for picture books or nonfiction. The Humming Room is a re-imagining of the classic The Secret Garden, except in this case the main character is a contemporary girl living on a mysterious island who discovers a tropical garden. Like the original, it’s heartbreaking and lyrical and the garden is essential.
-Erin
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