Take a journey through the garden in this captivating children’s book and discover the endless delights, surprises, secrets, and gifts it yields all year long.
A Big Garden
Primary (ages 6-9)
Material appropriate for primary age groups
The Tiger’s Egg
Herman the tiger is grumpy because of all the noisy neighbors around him at the zoo, but when a defenseless little egg falls into his lap, suddenly the cranky cat’s mood changes.
Anna And Johanna
This delightful tale about two young friends in 17th-century Holland is inspired by Vermeer’s two masterpieces, The Milkmaid and The Lacemaker. Although one is the daughter of a wealthy Dutch family and the other a household servant, Anna and Johanna become friends. Born on the same day, they celebrate their joint birthdays by making gifts for each other. But then a letter arrives that changes their lives forever. Told against the backdrop of the 17th-century Dutch city of Delft and its thriving commercial and artistic culture, this story of an unlikely friendship echoes the themes of Vermeer’s luminous depiction of domestic life.
Ojiichan’s Gift
This gentle picture book story will warm children’s hearts as it explores a deep intergenerational bond and the passing of knowledge from grandparent to grandchild over time. The lyrical text by Chieri Uegaki and luminous watercolor illustrations by Genevieve Simms beautifully capture the emotional arc of the story, from Mayumi’s contentment through her anger and disappointment to, finally, her acceptance. The story focuses on an important connection to nature, particularly as a place for quiet reflection. It contains character education lessons on caring, responsibility, perseverance and initiative. It’s also a wonderful way to introduce social studies conversations about family, aging and multiculturalism. Mayumi lives in North America with her Japanese mother and Dutch father, and visits her grandfather in Japan. Some Japanese words are included.
Phone Call With A Fish
A school trip to the science museum inspires a curious girl to make a connection with a shy, silent boy in her class.
The Rabbit And The Shadow
Three strangers meet in the forest and decide to hike to the top of a volcano together. Along the way, they help each other confront their fears and insecurities.
Florette
When Mae’s family moves from the country to the city, she is sad to leave behind her beloved backyard garden but before long, she finds a way to start a new garden.
The Fishing Lesson
A tourist spots a fisherman napping in his boat and tells him what he could achieve if he spent more time fishing, but it’s the tourist who ultimately learns something.
For Audrey With Love: Audrey Hepburn And Givenchy
When two young rising stars—Hubert de Givenchy and Audrey Hepburn—cross paths for the first time—it’s magic . . . literally, the perfect fit! All the famous ladies want a Givenchy dress—actresses, opera singers, princesses and the wife of a president. When Audrey Hepburn has to figure what to wear for her next movie, she approaches Givenchy, but he’s too busy to design something just for her. When he encourages her to try on clothing from within his collection, they’re both stunned by what they discover.
Koko and Bo
Little Koko does not want to do anything Bo tells him he should, but each time Bo lets him do as he pleases, Koko learns a lesson.