PLANTING HOPE, by Frederick Joseph and Paul Kellam, Candlewick, March 3, 2026, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 5-8)
A boy discovers a secret ingredient for nurturing plants and helping ailing loved ones in Planting Hope, by Frederick Joseph and Paul Kellam.
Everyone in Henry’s family loves plants and gardening. So why can he never get his little plant to grow, no matter how hard he tries? His mom has been able to grow anything since she was young, and even cultivated a whole orchard to help feed people who were hungry.
Henry imagines his mother as a great tree, with branches wrapping around the whole community. “People and seeds have a lot in common,” his mom likes to say. “If you want them to grow strong, nourishment and sunlight aren’t enough—they also need hope.”
When Henry’s mom becomes sick and it looks like she may not recover, this belief that she’s sown in her son becomes key to what happens next. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick
Planting Hope celebrates optimism and the power of hope. Author Frederick Joseph’s text is welcoming. The health of Henry’s mom is mirrored in the sick plants — a parallel that kids will easily grasp. Paul Kellam’s vibrant illustrations exudes positive vibes.
Planting Hope is a joyful look at healing and love.
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