Subject
Gardening -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Lillian Elizabeth Roy
Natalie: A Garden Scout
"Natalie: A Garden Scout" by Lillian Elizabeth Roy is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the challenges faced by a young girl named Natalie Averill after the death of her father leaves her family without means. As she grapples with the prospect of moving from her city life to her family's old farm in the countryside, she encounters unexpected opportunities and ultimately a chance for personal growth. The opening of the novel introduces Natalie and her plight, revealing her concerns about moving to the isolated Green Hill Farm. She feels an overwhelming sense of loss and uncertainty as she must leave behind her city life and friends. Her sympathetic schoolmates—Janet, Frances, Norma, and Belle—gather to discuss Natalie's situation and express their concern. As the narrative unfolds, we learn about the potential benefits of farm life and the joy of outdoor activities, setting the stage for Natalie's transformation as she becomes involved with Girl Scouts, embraces gardening, and seeks to build a happier future on the farm alongside her guardians and friends.
Howard Roger Garis
Uncle Wiggily's funny auto : $b or, How the Skillery Skallery Alligator was bumped; and Uncle Wiggily and his snow plow; also How the bunny rabbit gentleman watered the garden
"Uncle Wiggily's Funny Auto: or, How the Skillery Skallery Alligator was Bumped" by Howard R. Garis is a whimsical children's book written in the early 20th century. This book falls into the category of children's literature, specifically featuring engaging stories for young readers through the character of Uncle Wiggily, a gentle rabbit gentleman known for his adventures. The book explores themes of mischief, friendship, and the humorous challenges that arise in everyday life. In this charming collection, Uncle Wiggily embarks on three delightful tales featuring his amusing automobile escapades, snowy adventures with friends, and comical garden mishaps. In the title story, Uncle Wiggily and Nurse Jane Fuzzy Wuzzy experience a wild ride in his auto, complete with chasing an alligator. The second tale sees Uncle Wiggily trying to plow snow to help out friends who are trapped, only to be faced with comedic challenges from a sneaky fox and wolf. Lastly, Uncle Wiggily’s attempts to water his garden lead to a series of humorous accidents, including unintentionally soaking his neighbors. Through lighthearted storytelling and playful illustrations, the book captures the innocent joys and surprises of life in Uncle Wiggily’s world.
Lillian Elizabeth Roy
Norma: A Flower Scout
"Norma: A Flower Scout" by Lillian Elizabeth Roy is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. This story is part of the Country Life Series aimed at young girls, focusing on the adventures and personal growth of its protagonist, Norma, as she embarks on a journey of flower gardening and the establishment of a Girl Scout patrol. The narrative explores themes of nature, friendship, and the responsibilities of caring for living things, all set against the backdrop of summer in the country. The opening of the story introduces us to Norma through a heartfelt letter she writes home, describing her arrival at Green Hill Farm with her friends, Belle Barlow and Frances Lowden. As they navigate challenges like muddy shoes and an unaccommodating hack driver, we see their personalities emerge, particularly the determined and comical Belle. The girls quickly settle into farm life, and as the chapter unfolds, we learn about their plans to form a Girl Scout troop, with Norma expressing her enthusiasm for creating a flower garden. Through her interactions with the knowledgeable Mrs. Tompkins, Norma begins to understand the joys and responsibilities of gardening, setting the stage for her growth and seasonal adventures in the natural world.
Laura Rountree Smith
Mother Bunny and her flowers
"Mother Bunny and her flowers" by Laura Rountree Smith is a charming children's book written in the early 20th century. This delightful story revolves around the titular character, Mother Bunny, and her efforts to cultivate a vibrant garden filled with flowers and vegetables. The narrative is woven with engaging verses and educational elements about gardening and flowers, making it both entertaining and informative for young readers. The story follows Mother Bunny as she prepares her garden for spring with the help of her family, including Healthy Bunny, Pretty Bunny, and Old Father Bun. Throughout their gardening adventures, they encounter various characters, such as the whimsical Happy-Go-Lucky Bunny and enchanting flowers that come to life, sharing their legends and facts about their species. As the plot unfolds, themes of teamwork, nature, and the joys of gardening are prevalent, along with a whimsical touch from the appearances of flower fairies and playful animals. The narrative combines playful rhymes with educational insights about plant life, making it an enjoyable journey for children and families alike.
Eleanora H. Stooke
Grandfer's wonderful garden
"Grandfer's Wonderful Garden" by Eleanora H. Stooke is a fictional novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Billy, who is beginning a new chapter in his life after the loss of his mother and relocation to live with his grandfather in Devonshire. The themes of family, loss, and resilience are central to the narrative as Billy navigates his grief and seeks comfort in the new environment and relationships he is forming. At the start of the book, Billy is on a train journey to Exeter filled with anxiety about reuniting with his grandfather, whom he has never met. During the journey, he encounters a young soldier named Tom Turpin, who offers warmth and kindness, helping to console Billy as they discuss their families and experiences during the war. Upon reaching Exeter, Billy is greeted by his grandfather, a good-natured man who hopes to provide a loving home for him. As Billy settles into Rowley Cottage, he is introduced to new friends and a rural way of life, engaging in activities such as gardening while coming to terms with his past and the presence of his mother in his heart and memories. The beginning sets a poignant tone, illustrating the stark transitions in Billy's life while showcasing the healing power of nature and companionship.
Mabell S. C. (Mabell Shippie Clarke) Smith
Ethel Morton's Enterprise
"Ethel Morton's Enterprise" by Mabell S. C. Smith is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Mortons and their circle of friends, particularly focusing on Ethel Morton and her cousins, who share a passion for gardens and nature. As the characters plan their gardens and embark on small adventures related to gardening, the narrative touches on themes of friendship, curiosity, and the joys of nature. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Ethel Morton, nicknamed “Ethel Blue,” and her cousins as they enjoy a snowy day, celebrating their January birthdays together. The girls express their desire to create a garden, inspired by discussions and experiences shared among their group. They contemplate planting various flowers, vegetables, and even experiment with seeds and plants sourced from their surroundings. Their conversations are filled with wonder, as they share knowledge about botany and gardening techniques, setting the stage for a summer filled with blossoming friendships and gardening endeavors.
Mabell S. C. (Mabell Shippie Clarke) Smith
Ethel Morton at Sweetbrier Lodge
"Ethel Morton at Sweetbrier Lodge" by Mabell S. C. Smith is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Ethel Morton, her cousins, and their experiences as they help with the care of chickens and the construction of a new house called Sweetbrier Lodge. The narrative gently explores themes of family, childhood curiosity, and learning through hands-on experiences in both nature and home life. At the start of the novel, the characters are introduced through a lively scene where Ethel Morton and her cousins assist Dicky Morton in transferring newly hatched chicks from an incubator to a brooder. This charming opening dialogue showcases their personalities and the close-knit nature of their family. The children discuss various topics, including the construction of a new house for their relatives and their plans for a birdbath made of concrete. With playful and inquisitive interactions, the beginning sets the stage for a narrative filled with creativity, the joys of childhood, and the excitement of new adventures.
Anonymous
Woodbine-Arbor; or, The Little Gardeners: A Story of a Happy Childhood
"Woodbine-Arbor; or, The Little Gardeners: A Story of a Happy Childhood" by Anonymous is a children’s story published in the mid-19th century. The narrative focuses on the idyllic lives of a family of six siblings who engage in gardening as a means of learning discipline, responsibility, and the value of hard work amidst a lush and nurturing environment. The book encapsulates themes of family, childhood joys, and the cultivation of both plants and virtue. The story revolves around Mr. and Mrs. Howard and their six children: Henry, Charles, Maria, John, Elizabeth, and Harriet, who live in a beautiful countryside home near New York City. Under their parents' guidance, the children create their own garden where they can explore and develop such skills as planting, pruning, and caring for their plants. Their adventure culminates in them building a special arbor where they celebrate their parents' wedding anniversary with fruit and flowers from their garden, reinforcing the importance of family bonds and shared joyful experiences. The book underscores moral upbringing, encouraging children to nurture not just their garden but their minds and virtues as well.
Recently surfaced classics