"Here is the water
that works with the sun
to feed all the plants
that spring from the earth
that nurtures the seeds
that we have sown
to help our garden grow."
Two little ones are excited to be opening seed packets in preparation for planting a garden. Seeds in hand, they are off to the space that will provide a tasty bounty. Days pass and the seeds sprout into plants to be enjoyed in time to come. A sudden OH NO! rings out as the children check their garden to find plants drooping in a patch of shade.
Bring on the sun! It's easy to see from the other side of the garden that sunshine is having a totally different effect on the seeds planted there. It's a sure sign that sunshine makes all the difference - until it doesn't. Another OH NO! shows evidence of what happens when the sun is strong, and there is a lack of moisture.
By now, readers will respond to the pattern of events that are being shared here. In cumulative text that grows with each turn of the page, the children recognize what is needed for seeds and their cycle of life. Sun and water are needed if seeds are to produce plants to feed the children. Add to that mushrooms and worms; the result is beautiful and very tasty. The repetitive phrasing and the bright, colorful images, created digitally, make clear the emotions felt with each setback and solution.
Back matter explains the needs for successful gardening, once the seeds are planted. It's a fun and informative read as spring nears and planting a garden becomes a terrific family pursuit.
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