The Secret Of Sapling Green

Description

Sapling Green is a gentle, quiet girl with a secret she is scared to show the world. Wynn Farthing is funny and noisy, and the best at climbing high into the branches of the old schoolyard tree. One terrible day, after a storm, the gardener says the tree has to come down. Can Sapling use her secret to save the day? Sapling has always kept her hands in her pockets at school to hide her big secret - her green thumbs. But at home she flourishes, growing all kinds of brilliant flowers, shrubs and bushes. When the schoolyard tree is in danger, she has to show her special gift to her classmates in order to save it. To her surprise, they are delighted, particularly Wynn! It turns out Sapling's differences are her strengths and through sharing them, she finds friendship and acceptance. The Secret Of Sapling Green is a story for quiet children who are unsure of their place in their peer group, and the boisterous kids who rule the playground. Its whimsical watercolour illustrations will captivate young readers, and its story will inspire them to be brave and accept themselves - and each other - for who they are. Sapling's green thumbs are a subtle and relatable metaphor for conditions which may make children feel like they are different, such as Autism. Her bravery despite her difference is a reminder that we should never feel like we have to hide who we are.

Penelope Pratley is an illustrator and author with a passion for creating books that inspire children to find their place in the world. With Bachelors of Fine Art and of Teaching, she has taught art from preschool to high school. She now works from her home studio and tutors aspiring artists.

"A beautifully illustrated and imaginative story about belonging, appropriate for any child who may feel different at times. It may be particularly useful for neurodiverse children who are finding school a challenge, because it doesn't medicalise difference or focus on a set of 'symptoms' that don't necessarily, or even often, relate to all kids 'on the spectrum'. Sapling, whose experience is unlike anyone else's, is a character we can all connect with. " * Picture Book Parents * A story for the quiet children in a group or classroom environment, who are unsure how they fit. Often it is hard to connect with loud, boisterous children if you are naturally quiet and shy. Sapling Green allows young readers to see how she found a place in the group just by being herself. She might have had a little magic, but helping a young child find a little courage to approach or connect like Sapling does, it can make a world of difference - being almost magic! * What Book Next? * "Unusual, believable and original - about saving of a school playground tree. Engaging illustrations." * Pinerolo * "A charmingly illustrated book for children who are different or don't necessarily always fit in but find their way and acceptance from others." * SchoolDays Magazine * The Secret of Sapling Green is a magical book and will be enjoyed by both quiet children attempting to find their place among their peer group as well as their boisterous peers who can often rule the playground, but too, have their vulnerabilities. This book highlights that we all have our ways of being in the world and our own special talents and to accept who you are and others too for what they bring. * Swings and Roundabouts Magazine * " Unusual, believable and original - about saving of a school playground tree. Engaging illustrations." * Child Magazine * "The Secret of Sapling Green includes themes of individuality, diversity, embracing differences, courage, self-confidence, and friendship. It is recommended for children aged 5 years and older." The illustrations beautifully support the book's message by depicting a diverse group of children" * Buzz Words * "The Secret of Sapling Green is a beautifully told story with carefully chosen words in a brief text and with lovely illustrations. It's message of acceptance of difference, both in ourselves and others, will stir empathy for children who are different and bring hope to those who struggle to fit in. An excellent teaching resource for starting class discussions about acceptance." * Reading Time * "The Secret of Sapling Green is a quiet and gentle story about friendship, acceptance and the power of nature to bring people together. Sapling's green thumbs offer a beautiful metaphor for any condition that may make children feel different. The book provides opportunities for discussion about differences and inclusion, and serves as a reminder that we can only blossom when we accept ourselves and each other." * Kids' Book Review *