Florette

Florette written and illustrated by Anna Walker (Penguin Viking) HB RRP

ISBN 9780670079414

Reviewed by Dianne Bates

I loved both the front and back covers of this picture book by a well-known Australian picture book creator, but when I opened it, the fly pages took my breath away: they are simply sumptuous, so lovely -- a mass of foliage of all shades of green with the occasional flower or small animal. On the title page, the word ‘Florette’ is decorated with sprigs of greenery and flowers while below it a small child in short plants is offering a plant to a sitting dog.

This is the story of Mae who wants to take her garden with her when her family moves to a new home. However, ‘there was no room among the crowded roof-tops for apple trees and daffodils.’ All around the small child lies concrete and there are no opportunities for her to ‘chase butterflies in the wavy grass.’ Even the park in her new home is filled with ‘tiny stones and empty chairs.’ Following a bird, Mae comes across a beautiful shop filled with greenery, but sadly it’s closed. Outside it, though, she finds a ‘stalk of green.’ She plants this in a jar on a window ledge in her apartment.

In the final double-page illustration the outdoor’s courtyard where children used to play hopscotch and other chalk games, is filled with many pots of leafy plants and children who play and help tend Mae’s new garden. And in the final single page illustration we see the front of the apartment block where windows bloom with vegetation. Mission accomplished!

This delightful picture book shows readers how it is possible to fulfill one’s vision even when it doesn’t seem possible, simply by being persistent and taking a new perspective. It shows too the power of the imagination, the magic of the natural world and resilience in the face of change. Mae’s experience must surely encourage children to ‘green’ their environment no matter where they live.

The text of Florette is simple, the sentences short and sweet: the illustrations, often set with lots of white space are poignant and compelling. This book is highly recommended especially for readers aged 5 to 7 years.

Barnaby and the lost Treasure of Bunnville

Barnaby and the lost Treasure of Bunnville by Robert Vescio, illustrated by Cheri Hughes (Big Sky Publishing)

HB RRP $24.99 PB RRP $14.99

ISBN: HB 978-1-925275-64-3 PB 978-1-925275-61-2

Reviewed by Anita Howard

A story about an eco-friendly rabbit and his desire grow a garden from his collection of seeds. Barnaby is a rabbit which has collected many seeds from his travels. He wishes to create a garden where he lives, in Bunnyville. But the mayor is only interested in monetary wealth and says no to Barnaby's request. Barnaby takes advantage of the mayor’s greed and tricks him and citizens of Bunnyville, using a fake treasure map into digging holes all over the open spaces around the town.

Barnaby drops one of his seeds into each hole. Over time, the seeds turn into trees and plants, bearing fruit and vegetables which he takes to the market to sell. Barnaby tells the mayor and people of Bunnyville that here is the wealth from the ground. Through Barnaby’s achievement, infant children and older will gain an insight into the wealth and value of the earth.

The illustrations are clear, bold and playful. The additional inclusion of the ladybug and her different antics, bring anticipation as you wonder what she will do on the next page.

Flower Power: Ella and Olivia

Flower Power: Ella and Olivia by Yvette Poshoglian, illustrated by Danielle McDonald (Scholastic Australia)
PB RRP $7.99
ISBN 978-1-74362-053-3
Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Ella and Olivia are sisters. Ella is seven and Olivia is five. In Flower Power Ella has decided she would like to start a garden at home just like the one they have at school. She is happy for Olivia to help, but Ella wants to be in charge. Mum and Dad help the girls build and prepare the garden bed, then leave the panting to them. The only problem is Ella wants to grow just herbs and vegetables while Olivia wants flowers as well. Is Ella being too bossy? Can they find a compromise?

This is a great story about a family working together. Even baby Max is involved, mostly making mud pies but creating this garden is a family effort. There are discussions about making the garden bed, staking tomatoes, seedlings, different herbs and other gardening issues.

Ella and Olivia have a realistic sibling relationship which many young girls will relate too and the way the family interacts is also grounded and positive. This title explores cooperation, bossiness and responsibility.

The sweet illustrations add to the story, showing the family working together as well as the growing frustrations of Ella. Every page is decorated making the book appealing to young readers.

Ella and Olivia is a lovely series for young girls, five plus, who are starting to read.