One third book about nature, one third collective biography, one third dissertation, this is a piece of "visual journalism" concerning NYC's garden people – the folks that manage, study and have their science inspired by the public gardens, parks and other green spaces throughout New York. Here are the recounts of the days' activities, the guys who know the bird hot spots come migration season, here is a tree at a hella wonky angle. Very much preaching to the converted, and perhaps not bound to travel far beyond the relevant state, unless this really is your field, this is a success, but quite a niche one all told, however much we all love the outdoors when we have time for it.

This lovely title will be enjoyed by many but, perhaps most especially, by those who live in New York City. The author moved to New York from India and missed that essential sense of the outdoors. How it was found again is in these pages.

As the title notes connections are made with plants, parks and the people who love them. Thus, there are conversations with those who know the Union Square Market, the New York Botanical Garden and a host of other locations.

Enjoy this one for its content. Stay, too, for the glorious illustrations.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for this title. All opinions are my own.

This is a lovely little book about the value of plants and green spaces. The author and illustrator interviewed myriad people who all interact with plants and natural places in and around NYC. Through the interviews, you learn about a variety of different careers and how plants and nature are important to each person. The author includes a portrait of the interviewee and illustrations of the place or the things they work with. Jain is a talented artist and the illustrations enhance each section. A quick read, but a thoughtful and joyful book about the joys of nature even in a city. Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy in return for my honest opinions.

Just get this book when it comes out in April 2023. And tell me one thing I wouldn’t like…. No, no, no. One thing I would not love about this book.

I can tell you for sure there won’t be one. Cos just look at the cover!!!! And the content!!!! Who does that perfect little things for such a tiny short book???

Damn. I got too emotional seeing the illustrations and the tiny, little lines. And I am all motivated to make the earth more green and empower more people to actually work towards more plants 🪴

Seeing and reading about the places mentioned and the people you are meeting in this colourful book will surely shake your heart to do something!

Thank you, Chronicle Books, for the advance reading copy.