Mr. Tony and Nevaeh, a student, planted a farm. And then the word got out. Every Saturday people came to help: moms, dads, neighbors, shopkeepers. Everyone pitched in and raked, tiled, dug, and planted. It was beautiful in spring and summer, and when the weather turned to fall, it was time to harvest so everyone could experience the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor. Together they composted, recycled, and enjoyed. They built a garden. They built a community, too.

Take the story even further with an author’s note, a recipe for vegetable soup, and instructions for recycling, composting, and tending to a garden.

Saturdays at Harlem Grown: How One Big Idea Transformed a Neighborhood
Written by Tony Hillery
Illustrated by Jessie Hartland

Source: Publisher (Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books)

“I’ve heard their hearts and now share those hearts with you. These pages truly speak to the power of children!” — Ruby Bridges Ruby Bridges was the first Black child to attend an all-white elementary school in New Orleans. She established the Ruby Bridges Foundation to promote tolerance and to create change through education. She traveled across the US, listening to the inspiring voices of young children.

Dear Ruby, Hear Our Hearts is a compilation of letters from concerned young students about today’s issues, including bullying, climate change, gun violence, and racism. Reading Ruby’s intuitive and inspirational responses, young readers will embrace the courage to be brave, bold, and confident.

Dear Ruby, My name is Olivia. Thank you for sharing your story. It made me want to be brave and stand up to make a change. You showed me to not give up when something is unfair. You can make it change, no matter what. I bet you were scared just like me. You said that if someone or something is putting you down, you get back up. My heart heard that, and I am trying to be more like you. Sincerely, Olivia

My dearest Olivia, I am so pleased you wrote to me, especially about standing up. I know all too well how scary it can be to stand up for yourself or even others. Just know it takes a courageous and brave person to stand up, even if you are afraid. It happens to us all! I am proud of you, Ruby Bridges The students’ letters and Ruby’s responses are powerfully illustrated with dynamic and thought-provoking artwork by John Jay Cabuay.

Dear Ruby, Hear Our Hearts Written by Ruby Bridges Illustrated by John Jay Cabuay Source: Publisher (Scholastic)