Over in the Garden, written by Janna Matthies and illustrated by Tisha Lee, is a charming story inspired by the classic children’s counting song Over in the Meadow. In this delightful tale, a group of young gardeners joyfully tend to a community garden. As they dig, plant, weed, compost, and harvest, young readers are invited to count along with each page, making it both an interactive and educational experience. The story begins with, “Over in the garden, in the weeds, in the sun, bent a brave little gardener with her little shovel ONE.” The rhythmic flow of the text, set to the familiar tune, makes it perfect for a read-aloud or lively sing-along.
As a gardener myself, it’s clear that Matthies is a true enthusiast. The story, paired with captivating illustrations, will undoubtedly inspire kids to try their hand at gardening. A pop-up summertime rainstorm doesn’t deter these gardeners; they take their gardening fun into a small cabin to wait out the rain. When the storm clears, they’re right back to tending the garden, showing that the joy of gardening never fades, no matter the weather. This gentle portrayal of teamwork and friendship is also a wonderful reminder that working together, even when the skies are gray, brings its own rewards.
Tisha Lee’s illustrations are a vibrant display of color and whimsy, with delightful details, from playful pups in a wheelbarrow to butterflies dancing through the garden. The artwork is rich with hidden surprises, like bunnies peeking from behind bushes, mice carrying apple cores, and the lush, blooming garden itself. Over in the Garden is more than just a book—it’s an immersive experience, full of rhythm, warmth, and joy. With its engaging visuals and interactive counting elements, it’s the perfect addition to any child’s bookshelf, fostering both a love for nature and early counting skills.
Over in the Garden is just one more addition to Matthies’ already impressive list of authored children’s books. Her love of nature and music combine to create stories that capture the essence of childhood curiosity and imagination, making her books timeless favorites for young readers. Matthies has a unique ability to connect with children, and her deep understanding of their world shines through in every story. Her 2022 book Here We Come (Beach Lane Books) won the prestigious Children’s Category of the 2024 Indiana Authors Award. Most recently, she has authored My Towering Tree (Beach Lane/Simon & Schuster, 2024), and Baby, Let’s Go To The Orchestra (Creative Editions, 2025).
