Here Are the Seeds by JaNay Brown-Wood, Olivia Amoah
Published by Kids Can Press on 2024
ISBN: 1525308300
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

Just in time for spring, Here are the Seeds is a picture book about two young protagonists who are experiencing the ups and downs of gardening. The two small gardeners, who present as Black, are planting seeds, solving problems, and patiently outlasting all the real-life tribulations that come the way of those who dig in the dirt.

The rhythm of the story follows The House That Jack Built (“Here are the seeds that we will sow to help our garden grow.”), and the reader sees the gardeners put in the work: planting, watching, waiting and then, “OH NO!”. Just like in real-life gardening, one imagines that all is well and the next day, half the seedlings look like they’re giving up. Have no fear. The text on the next page explains that the plants need more sun, and the gardeners solve the problem. And so it goes. Mother Nature throws a lot of obstacles at the determined duo (not enough water, too much water, overly aggressive mushrooms, etc.) but they persevere and are rewarded for their efforts.

The illustrations are attractive, simple and convey the “OH NO!” moment for attentive readers; others will have to wait until the following page to understand what’s befallen the garden.The story and illustrations are uncluttered and engaging, making it an ideal read-aloud for a pre-K storytime with an accompanying gardening activity.  

Here are the Seeds shows the readers that problems arise, can be dealt with, but don’t prevent further problems from occurring. Persistence and patience make gardening (and life) rewarding and enjoyable. Strongly recommended for collections in need of more gardening titles for young readers.

Reviewed by Deanna Contrino, SLMS/MLIS, Young School Librarian, Saco