The Little Gardener: Helping Children Connect With the Natural World — By Julie A. Cerny, Illustrations by Ysemay Dercon

 "[Author Julie] Cerny spent 15 years as an outdoor educator, leading little ones to study ponds, hike mountains and play games that helped introduce the way natural systems work. Her background comes through on each of the 224 pages of this thoughtful book, which is very much needed in today's digital and fast-paced world....Cerny's insights into the importance of connecting with the outside world truly touched my heart. 'Gardening cultivates ecological literacy - a working knowledge of how ecological systems support all life on this planet. When we garden, it's easier to see ourselves as part of those systems and to experience firsthand how our choices affect our environment, for better or for worse.'" — Oregonlive.com "So, you've gotten your child stoked about eating produce and growing it, too. Congratulations! The only problem now is that you've never gardened in your life, and have no idea how to ensure a successful-and inspiring-experience for your tyke. This cheerful little ref