The Vanderbeekers and the Hidden GardenBy Karina Yan Glaser
Another run-of-the-mill summer has just started for Josie, Oliver, Hyacinth and Laney (a.k.a. the Vanderbeekers). Their sister Isa is away at music camp, but otherwise things are pretty standard at their Harlem brownstone.
But when their beloved upstairs neighbour, Mr. Jeet, has a stroke, and his wife, Miss Josie, leaves to care for him at the hospital, the Vanderbeeker kids know they have to do something to help. They embark on a project to turn an empty lot in their neighbourhood into a beautiful garden in honour of Miss Josie and Mr. Jeet.
Although the kids pour their heart and soul into the garden for weeks, they manage to keep it a secret from all the adults in their life. After all, the empty lot does not belong to them and they’re not ready to reveal what they are doing with it. When Mr. Huxley, a friend’s dad, tries to sell the land right out from under them, the Vanderbeekers are heartbroken.
Can they save the garden? Can they motivate Mr. Jeet to get well again?
The Vanderbeekers and the Hidden Garden is a feel-good book about a very positive and loving family. Reading this book may just inspire you to embark on a project all your own!