Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Secret Gardeners is a sensitively written and encouraging story for all ages (but aimed mostly at younger readers) about restorative gardening, community, and stewardship by Maija Hurme and Lina Laurent. Due out 11th June 2024 from Pajama Press, it's 56 pages and will be available in hardcover format. Originally published in Swedish in 2021, this English translation by Sofia Karlsson & Jen Pulju Porter is seamless and smoothly done.
It's accessible and well written and although it's mostly aimed at 6-9 year olds (Lexile measure 760L) it's full of interesting background and gardening ideas and community, along with a lovely story which everyone will find touching. The author and publisher have also included an abbreviated glossary and a bibliography/links for further reading as well as short info blocks about no-dig gardening, composting, beekeeping, and more.
Four and a half stars. This would be a good choice for public or school library acquisition, gift giving, and home use.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Reviewed by annieb123 on
Reading updates
- 9 June, 2024: Started reading
- 9 June, 2024: Finished reading
- 9 June, 2024: Reviewed