The Garden at School: Discovering Plants, Pollinators, and Bluebirds - A Heartwarming STEM Picture Book for Elementary Classrooms and Families - Paperback

by Carley Fisher-Maltese (Author), Arina Pavlenko (Illustrator)

What if the most extraordinary natural wonders were waiting to be discovered just steps from your classroom?

The Garden at School is a story about three diverse school-aged children who discover the school garden and bluebird trail at their own elementary school and the lovable, quirky, and knowledgeable garden leader who opens their eyes to the wonders of the natural world. From peeking into a nest box to spotting monarchs on milkweed and other pollinators, the kids learn how native plants and patient stewardship help a habitat thrive. Gentle storytelling and vibrant art-illustrated by a 7th-grade student-make science feel personal, joyful, and reachable for every reader.

Perfect for:

• Ages 5-10 (Grades K-5)
• Parents, libraries, and classroom read-alouds
• Teachers seeking STEM and NGSS connections (habitats, life cycles, interdependence)

After reading, kids will learn:

• How birds, insects, and native plants work together in a garden ecosystem
• Simple ways to observe, record, and care for living things
• That small acts-watering, planting, noticing-grow confidence and community

Why Families and Teachers Will LOVE this book:

• Heartwarming, STEM-friendly picture book that sparks kids' curiosity and outdoor exploration
• Outdoor learning moments that make science feel close to home
• Built-in prompts for observing, journaling, and caring for living things
• A celebration of youth creativity-illustrated by a 7th-grade student

Open the gate to discovery. Step outside with three curious classmates, listen for bluebirds, map butterfly paths, and watch the garden come alive-proving that the best science starts with looking closely at the world right where you are.