Books about plants and gardens

There are lots of books out there celebrating the wonder of the natural world – whether it’s the power of flowers, spectacular plants or a bit of great gardening. Here are just some of our favourites.

  • The Night Gardener

    by The Fan Brothers 

    2017 4 to 14 years 

    A sumptuously illustrated, heart-warming tale of a sad town and lonely orphan, given new life by the kindness of The Night Gardener. There is little text, leaving the emotional impact to the gorgeous pictures. This has the feel of an instant classic.

  • There’s a Tiger in the Garden

    by Lizzy Stewart 

    2016 4 to 9 years 

    • Picture books

    A sweet and surreal story with lush painterly illustrations and a high quality production. Nora’s tiger is sure to delight little ones who dream of tigers coming to tea, and then staying to play in the garden!

  • Anywhere Farm

    by Phyllis Root, illustrated by G. Brian Karas 

    2017 4 to 9 years 

    • Picture books
    • Poetry and rhyme
    • Disability
    • Mobility/​wheelchair

    Rhyming text and warm illustrations create an uplifting tale that celebrates the joys and pleasures of growing not just food and flowers, but also friendships and communities.

  • Errol’s Garden

    by Gillian Hibbs 

    2018 4 to 9 years 

    • Mobility/​wheelchair
    • Visual impairment

    Errol loves gardening, but he doesn’t have a garden. Then he comes up with a creative solution, thanks to the discovery of a disused area at the top of his apartment block. A heartwarming book with universal appeal that’s a delight, from beginning to end. 

  • The Little Gardener

    by Emily Hughes 

    2015 4 to 9 years 

    • Picture books

    With diverse illustrations, and a clear story to follow, this wonderful book is the perfect read – especially when your own garden is full in bloom.

  • The Magic Faraway Tree

    by Enid Blyton 

    1939 5 to 9 years 

    • Adventure
    • Classics
    • Fantasy

    When Joe, Beth and Frannie move to a new home, an Enchanted Wood is on their doorstep. And when they discover the Faraway Tree, it proves to be the beginning of many magical adventures! Join them and their friends Moonface, Saucepan Man and Silky the fairy as they discover which new land is at the top of the Faraway Tree.

  • Boffin Boy and the Poison Garden

    by David Orme, illustrated by Peter Richardson 

    2013 5 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Comic books
    • Funny
    • Graphic novels

    Both loyal Boffin Boy fans, and those discovering the series for the first time, will enjoy this outlandish adventure about a famous female scientist who is planting trees that look disturbingly like people and animals.

  • Tom’s Midnight Garden

    by Philippa Pearce 

    2015 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Classics
    • Coming-of-age
    • Fantasy

    With no garden or children to play with Tom feels lonely and unhappy, until one night he hears the clock striking thirteen and discovers a secret garden.

  • Bloom

    by Nicola Skinner 

    2019 9 to 14 years 

    • Coming-of-age
    • Fantasy
    • Funny

    Sorrel Fallowfield is very well-behaved, but her world is about to be turned upside down when she discovers a mysterious packet of seeds. A surreal, sideways take on conformity and the power of breaking the rules.

  • Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus

    by Dusti Bowling 

    2017 9 to 14 years 

    • Funny
    • Disability

    Aven’s dad has just been offered a new job, managing a rundown theme park. And it turns out the theme park conceals some surprising secrets… With likeable characters and quirky humour, readers are likely to find this an inspiring and charming read.