Off to the Nursery (Alice Oehr, Scribble)

Off to the Nursery is the latest from Alice Oehr, the award-winning creator of Off to the Market and Artichoke to Zucchini. With this new picture book, Oehr has focused on gardening and plants, and she again uses her trademark neon spot colours and a combination of pencil, crayon, cut paper and digital collage to shape her distinct illustrations. The book starts in spring, which is the best time to work in the garden. Readers are led to a nursery, where they are introduced to a slew of gardeners and nature lovers, from Bob, who recommends planting tomatoes in anticipation of a pizza birthday party, to Samita, who shows us how easy it is to grow herbs. The ideas encouraged in this book are practical and achievable for families, inspiring them to think about what is possible in their own backyard. There is information about native Australian flowers and garden creatures, as well as handy tips on what tools and accessories might be needed. Each illustration throughout the book is carefully labelled with names and fun facts. This engaging and brightly coloured tour through a plant nursery is a perfect introduction to gardening for children aged 5+, and is a vibrant celebration of gardens and those who nurture them.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Karys McEwen is a librarian, bookseller, author and the vice president of CBCA VIC Branch. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews