The Curious Garden

Katherine Kellgren narrates this animated adaptation of the 2009 picture book (an ALA Notable selection) by author and illustrator Peter Brown, featuring music by David Mansfield. Set in a treeless city—colored in grays and muted brick tones—where most people stay indoors, the story finds young Liam happily exploring despite the dreariness. One day, the boy notices a dark staircase that leads up to an abandoned railway, where he discovers a “lonely patch of color” with a smattering of struggling wildflowers and weedy plants. Liam adopts this small oasis of life, and while he initially experiences problems with overwatering and pruning, he eventually improves his techniques after several weeks. Like Liam, the anthropomorphized garden becomes “restless…it wanted to explore,” continuing to grow through the seasons, and even winter doesn't stop Liam from making plans for spring. Ultimately, the expanding garden attracts bees and birds and before long the city itself comes alive, with neighbors young and old following Liam's inspiring example. A heartwarming story about appreciating nature, the rewards of hard work, and the power of community, The Curious Garden also features a read-along option and an interview with Brown. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)