by Zohreh Ghahremani (Author) Susie Ghahremani (Illustrator)
A lively afternoon together in Nana's garden is full of laughter, discovery, and connection. In lyrical text that blends past and present, Memory Garden takes us to the places we leave behind but never forget.
Written and illustrated by a loving mother daughter duo, the nostalgic text and vibrant illustrations invite us to enjoy the beauty of Iranian gardens - and culture - in an adventure that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
Godwin Books
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A mother-daughter team of Iranian descent contemplate memory in this intergenerational tale. An overall-clad, red-capped protagonist with two long braids loves helping in Nana's garden, but admits that "what I love even more are the stories she tells me about a garden she knows far away," an unspecified place that Nana calls "back home." There, tall cypress trees stood like soldiers, flower beds were filled with fragrant blooms, and harvesting fruit was a beloved ritual. Memories unfurl as Nana, in a straw hat and green shirt, flashes back to her younger self, only obscurely referencing history (about the garden, "We had to leave it") to focus on joyful sensate reminiscences. Vibrant illustrations in a green-gold palette--painted in gouache on vellum--include Persian motifs. Author and illustrator notes conclude. Ages 4-8. (Feb.)
Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.Zohreh Ghahremani is an author and poet whose work is influenced by her experiences as Middle Eastern immigrant. Formerly a children's dentist and professor, she followed her love of literature and became the award-winning author of the novels Sky of Red Poppies and The Moon Daughter and a renowned voice of the Iranian diaspora. Born in Iran, Zoe now lives, writes, and gardens in San Diego, California. This is her first picture book.
Susie Ghahremani is an award-winning illustrator whose work is exhibited and sold internationally. A graduate of Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), she is the author-illustrator of STACK THE CATS and BALANCE THE BIRDS. Susie drinks tea while working with her paints, and often worries about mixing up the two. She is Zohreh's daughter.