spiders and paradise

Harlem Grown by Tony Hillery and illustrated by Jessie Hartland (Nonfiction Picture Book)

I love this true story of Mr. Tony’s idea to transform a haunted garden into an educational and nurturing paradise with the assistance of kids who have a lot of energy and love to give. I marvel at how well the story is told through simple text that isn't too wordy and enjoy all the steps that went into making the abandoned lot a garden. The illustrations are equally simple yet detailed and a lot of fun. Included at the end of the story is a small note with more details about the Harlem Grown Garden, including how the garden has blossomed into twelve sites across Harlem.

Cloth Lullaby by Amy Novesky and illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault (Nonfiction Picture Book)

This is a book that requires your undivided attention. The language is dense and thought-provoking: “If you bash into the web of a spider, she doesn’t get mad. She weaves and she repairs it.” The illustrations are absorbing and complex. And Louise’s devotion to her mother and the all-consuming grief she feels when she loses her mother are both beautifully woven throughout the illustrations and story of her life.