Review by Gabrielle Tselos
Tundra Books, February 6, 2024
48 pages, Hardcover, $18.99 CAD, 9781774880470
Picture Book, ages 3-7
Fiction
“Together, we are growing a garden that feels like home.”
A Garden Called Home, is a picture book written by Jessica J. Lee and illustrated by Ellaine Chen. A heartfelt story between a mother and daughter from Taiwan, this novel revolves around the ways nature makes them happy. During winter, the girl’s mother stays inside and has a sad demeanor. When they visit Taiwan, however, the girl sees how happy her mother becomes. After returning home, she makes it her personal mission to show her mother that the nature where they live can be just as interesting and fun.
Throughout their time in Taiwan, the girl’s mother teaches her about the plants and environment. This is done in a very interesting way, educating young readers about this subject while also keeping them entertained. The book also employs some mandarin words to explain some of the plants and vegetables that her mother grew up with in Taiwan. For a young child learning mandarin, this could be a great starting book as the glossary in the back of the book explains some of the words.
The drawings done by Ellaine Chen are beautiful and bright. They offer wonderful imagery of the gorgeous landscapes of Taiwan. I particularly loved the scenes when the girl and her mother go hiking. With warm touches, the illustrations feel lively and childlike.
This story teaches the beautiful lesson that no matter where we are in the world, we can try and bring our favourite parts of home with us. It can be hard moving to a new country, for both children and adults. Not only does this book remind readers that they are not alone, but it also encompasses the importance of getting out into nature. Both the girl and her mother enjoy and value nature, learning about the Earth and all it has to offer. Additionally, due to the incorporation of mandarin words and traditional Taiwanese plants, this book can also be a great tool for teaching children about other parts of the world.
This picture book would be a wonderful addition to any child’s library, especially those who are trying to learn about nature in other cultures and locations. It is exciting, touching, and sure to get your child wanting to go explore nature both around their own home and around the world.
This review was written by Gabrielle Tselos. Gabrielle is a 3rd year psychology student at UBC, who hopes to minor in creative writing. She enjoys writing, baking, and taking photos in her free time.
YOUNG ADULTING 