The Little Crooked Bookshelf

THE NIGHT GARDENER
by The Fan Brothers

This week's pick is from cottager Anika Denise.


What it's all about
One day, William discovers that the tree outside his window has been sculpted into a wise owl. In the following days, more topiaries appear, and each one is more beautiful than the last. Soon, William’s gray little town is full of color and life. And though the mysterious night gardener disappears as suddenly as he appeared, William—and his town—are changed forever.

Why it's on The Little Crooked Bookshelf…
It's a quietly magical story with spare text and stunning illustrations. Brothers Terry and Eric Fan demonstrate the art of the page turn beautifully.


My favorite lines…
Something was happening on Grimloch Lane.
Something good.


My favorite illustration…

Why kids will love it…
There's a deep a sense of mystery and hope that will pull children through the story. The finely detailed illustrations, reminiscent of Gorey and Sendak, invite long looks and repeat reading.

Why grown-ups will love it…
Its sense of magic and whimsy will no doubt captivate adults as well as kids, but the book is also an entry point to a conversation about loneliness, kindness and community that I think older readers will find interesting.

For any age, The Night Gardener is a stunning read.