Everything Grows in Jiddo's Garden

Everything grows in Jiddo’s Garden” by Jenan A. Matari, illustrated by Aya Ghanameh, is a tender and beautifully illustrated story about belonging and home. It starts with a girl who lives far away from Palestine. She has never been to Palestine, yet loves it. As she discusses and imbibes Jiddo’s “green thumb superpowers, we learn that a garden is more than a collection of plants – it is memory, hope and connection. “Even when the dark clouds sully the sun and makes the days darker, (more... ... the home he carries in his heart causes everything to flourish in Jiddo’s garden.”) Matari says. The line speaks for resilience. It says that when love for home dwells in our hearts or no matter which storm we face, it will continue to grow forever.

A strong yet gentle way to introduce young readers to Palestine’s history—without fear—with love, pride and beauty.