"All through dinner I talk about tomorrow's
year-end field trip. I've been waiting for this
day for so long. The Botanical Garden is my
favorite place on the whole entire planet. I
even have my own annual pass. I know almost
all the employees, like Ms. Rose and Mr.
Haywood. I hope they'll be there tomorrow."
Henry narrates this story, letting readers know that his love for plants is great. He even calls his friend Daisy by her scientific name - Leucanthemum vulgare. Daisy is not impressed. Henry is not sure why. Henry makes it clear that he has difficulty waiting to share what he knows. He also notices that his classmates are concerned when they don't get a chance to answer.
At recess, with few friends, Henry finds safety and peace under the weeping willow - Salix babylonica. Only when recess is over and quiet envelops him is he truly relaxed. The school counselor knows where to find him, and brings him back to her office. The calm remains.
At home he exhibits further concerns; this time with his dinner plate and foods that touch each other. He is excited to talk about the school field trip to the Botanical Garden the next day. He will be in his element there. When they arrive, Ms. Rose asks for his help. When needed, Henry provides extra information. Sometimes, he is allowed to give his own commentary.
"These are sunflowers of the Helianthus genus. I would rather stay in the shade, but they like a lot of light. Did you know that sunflowers are mainly grown for their seeds, which are used to make oil?"
When Daisy helps him to name 'daisies', he blushes. The children are asked to partner up, an experience that doesn't generally go well for Henry. Imagine his surprise when Daisy wants to work with him. What a way to end their day!
The gorgeous artwork created in watercolor, gouache and charcoal is filled with color and movement, and a love of the plants Henry loves. Facial expressions add depth to the telling and allow readers to see the emotions felt at all times.
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