Secret Gardeners: Growing a Community and Healing the Earth

K-Gr 3–Replete with information on gardening and nature, this title will inform children and adults who are thinking of taking on a gardening project. Three children live in an apartment building and notice the apparently abandoned house next door. Working with several helpful adults, they create a marvelous garden using “no dig” techniques along with other gardening ideas that are fully explained. The explanations give this title thoughtful nonfiction underpinnings in modern gardening as well as beekeeping and other ecological topics. The text thoughtfully blends facts with the story and promotes a deeper connection with the natural world, whether readers are in an urban or rural setting—or somewhere in between. Illustrations provide information and engagement as the young people create a community and celebrate the power of growing things as a means to unite people. Back matter includes further information to help young gardeners and their adult supporters.