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The Concrete Garden

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Book Synopsis

A timely, inspiring and uplifting story about hope and the power of creative expression, from one of the world’s most treasured bookmakers.
After a cold, dark winter, doors opened. Children spilled out like sweets from a box. Amanda was last one out of the tower block. She brought some chalk with her. On every inch of the concrete outside, the children drew pictures of everything they could think of, from flowers and snails, to spaceships and queens. Before long, a beautiful and exotic garden spread out across the concrete.

From master storyteller Bob Graham comes a charming, and gently post-pandemic story about finding optimism after a dark spell, and the nurturing power of community friendships in an urban setting. The Concrete Garden will resonate with anyone who has been apart from their loved ones, and will encourage us all to find the brightness and colour within ourselves.

Our Review Panel says...

One sunny day, Amanda comes out of her flat with a box of chalks and starts to draw on the concrete. Suddenly other children ‘spill out like sweets from a box’ as they run into the sunshine and a collaborative project ensues. An exotic garden begins to flourish on the concrete as each of the children adds their own touch of inspiration.

It is refreshing to see a picture book which casts urban life in such a positive light. The gently expressive illustrations and words have a warmth in them that emphasises the vitality and diversity of a tower block community. The uplifting message is that life there is neither dull nor dystopian; the magic of creativity can be found anywhere. For the many children who live in high-rise housing, it is a celebration of their world that we don’t often see.

The story is straightforward and optimistic.  The simple activity of chalking on pavements and playgrounds will be familiar to many; the message the book encapsulates is precious. Imagination, teamwork and valuing your environment can make beauty and stories blossom anywhere.

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Teaching Notes: The Concrete Garden

A resource pack provided by the publisher to accompany the book The Concrete Garden.

The Concrete Garden

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the concrete garden

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