Wonder in the Garden

“An abundant family garden proves a joyful playground for a child in this bighearted picture book. Donning a wide yellow hat and matching boots, little Nina goes outside—“¡Hola, jardín!”—accompanied by Nube the dog. The whole familia pitches in to tend the garden. . . . Nina and Nube also manage to fit in some playtime. . . . At last it’s time for dinner, and everyone gathers at the table—outside, naturally. The day ends with this loving Latine family laughing and eating together. Aikens-Nuñez peppers Spanish words and phrases throughout her energetic, succinct text, cued by a brief glossary that preps readers before the fun even begins. She repeatedly pairs specific phrases with their Spanish counterparts in an effective learning rhythm. . . . Freitas’ effervescent artwork depicts an Edenic paradise, with plentiful curved line work accentuating Nina and Nube’s exuberant playtime. . . . A lovely reminder that the whole world can be a garden.” —Kirkus Reviews