Bright, sumptuous mixed-media spreads have a folk-art quality, while the simplicity of the artwork mirrors the lyrical text. The awe, mystery, and beauty of the changing seasons as experienced by the children make this a must-have book to welcome spring. --School Library Journal A garden becomes a symbol for the circle of life in this child-appealing story told in verse reminiscent of "The House That Jack Built". The folk art-style paintings feature stylized children, birds, insects, and even a fantastical Jack Frost, who despite his outfit resembles the doll-like children. Satisfying to listen to and look at, and along the way children will learn something about how a garden grows. --Booklist Every spread is filled to the brim with Cool's full-bleed paintings and Australian author Millard's verse. --Publishers Weekly At once stately and soothing--a fine choice for bedtime sharing or for calming ruffled spirits in general. --Kirkus Reviews Very beautiful.

--Seven Impossible Things blog The expected rhythm of the words matches well the roundness of the naturally growing world, and the less expected rhymes (like "appled" and "dappled" and "wind" and "velvety skinned") draw our attention further. Rebecca Cool's bright polychromed pictures of children and plants rev up gardening enthusiasm. --Chicago Tribune This is a beautifully written tale that follows the repetitive pattern of "The House that Jack Built" - perfectly to the circular cycle of nature. --San Antonio Express-News Take a journey through Isabella's garden, where beautiful flowers bloom and the tiniest of seeds flourish. --Newsday.