by Kristen Smeal, ABG Board Member
These books were handpicked by five-year-old Rosemary, a lover of books and gardening.
Muncha, Muncha, Muncha by Candace Fleming
Young children will engage with this book, repeating the onomatopoeic phrases of hungry rabbits finding their way into Mr. McGreely’s garden. With the turn of each page, the reader will learn why Mr. McGreely is increasingly upset. Little rabbits munching on the plants he worked so hard to cultivate, no matter what kind of barrier he uses to keep them out. We’ve all been there, Mr. McGreely!
Common Ground: The Water, Earth, and Air we Share by Molly Bang
This book is a brief, but meaningful, introduction to the human impact on Earth’s resources. The story takes place in an old village commons, which is a patch of land and resources that are intended to be shared. When the resources are depleted by some taking more than others, the villagers find another place to go. With colorful paintings and words for young children to understand, deforestation, over-fishing, depletion of fossil fuels, and water pollution are thought provoking themes that encourage the reader to think about the future.
Backyard Fairies by Phoebe Wahl
Alameda’s fascination with all-things-fairy-garden, make this a must-read for Island kids. Backyard Fairies is a book about a child who is searching for the elusive creatures who leave magical offerings and symbols behind. As she sets out on an evening adventure, the fairies manage to escape her discovery, sometimes even being beneath her feet. Photos of elaborate scenes featuring fairies and other mythical characters delight the reader’s sense of imagination and wonder.
City Green by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan
City Green is a realistic story about urban gardening. When a dilapidated building is demolished by the city, young budding gardener and activist, Mary and her neighbors initiate a solution in the spirit of the community to transform the vacant lot. Steps are taken to build a community garden, with engagement from the whole block, even cynical Old Man Hammer, who turns out to have an investment of his own. This inspiring story encourages children to take pride in their community and believe they have the power to make change.