Phwoar! This is a real stunner. I have been hunting high and low for books that are suitable for Y 2-3 students that are a tiny bit longer and not humorous. I love funny stories, so do my students, but they need to have a wider reading spectrum. This one is just perfect. It has an uplifting moral message and beautiful illustration. Will definitely use it in my courses.

The Garden and the Glen is about the magic that finds us when we are brave enough to be our unique selves even when the world is trying to convince us that we are unwanted. This is the dugly duckling meets magic.

A small blue butterfly is chased out of a yellow garden because she does not blend in. She flees to the forest of glen, where she encounters a colorful band of woodland creatures, birds, rabbits and deers, all of whom were also expelled from the garden for the same reason-being different.

The glen provides safety, friendship, and acceptance. However, it is the garden that holds the blue butterfly's true destiny.A Queen, a mystical potion, and the fate of their natural world hang in the balance. The blue butterfly, and what makes her different, holds the key.

On top of the story, the beautiful illustration really brings the story to life. The pictures are reminiscent of old fables resembling a kids crayon drawings. Any child reading the book will enjoy it very much.

Pros:

Illustrations: Maggie Green’s illustrations complement the story beautifully. The artwork is bright, colorful, and magical, adding a visual layer that brings the characters and their world to life.

Moral Lessons: The story teaches valuable lessons on standing up for oneself and others, fostering kindness, and accepting our own differences. We live a multicultural world today and these morals are a valuable lessons for any child.

Language and Structure: The simple yet eloquent language is perfect for children aged 6-12. The short chapters and accessible writing style make it suitable for both early readers and for reading aloud.

Cons:

Well, a childrens book can hardly have any cons.

Conclusion

The Garden and the Glen is an enchanting and inspiring tale for children that celebrates individuality and uniqueness. The book’s positive messages, along with its beautiful illustrations, make it a wonderful choice for both young readers and those looking for a story with moral depth with emphasis on kindness and courage.