Dr. Kelly Ablard / Frauke Galia
No Place for Plants is a vibrantly illustrated children’s picture book that tells the story of a modern day 8-year-old Native American girl from Los Angeles, California named Pukuu’ who is on a mission to save her community garden.Every Sunday, Pukuu’, her wise grandmother Ashuuk, and their pet desert tortoise Paa’ar walk to their community garden to spend time with their friends, including the plants, animals, and insects. But one Sunday, as they are walking to the garden, smelling the plants along the way, they arrive there to find some no-good, absolutely terrible news that could change everything.Pukuu’, with the guidance of Ashuuk and Paa’ar, embark on an unforgettable journey that reminds us of the importance of community and our connection to Nature.The Children’s Book That Meets The MomentThere is no more urgent time than now. Biodiversity is in crisis, there’s a lack of green space from urbanization, Nature-deficit disorder is rising, cultural sustainability is highly threatened, and our sense of smell continues to be ignored from an early age.The good news?Children intuitively understand we are part of the natural world. And they instinctively use their senses to explore. They’re naturally curious and are filled with wonder. This story connects both the adult reader and the young child with those emotions. No Place for Plants engages the child, and adult alike, to be stewards of the plants, passionate ambassadors for the natural world, and active smellers, while acknowledging that Native Americans have been this all along.A Story With A Timeless MessageNo Place for Plants takes young audiences on a heartfelt journey of resilience, community, and the profound connection between humans and Nature. Through vivid descriptions and captivating imagery, placed against the contrast of a gray concrete jungle, the book transports readers into Pukuu’s world, where they can feel the warmth of the sun, smell the fragrant plants, and witness the wonders of the natural world. The colorful illustrations bring the characters and the community garden to life, captivating young imaginations and fostering a deeper engagement with the story.The story addresses important themes such as the significance of community spaces and the impacts of urban development on the environment. As Pukuu and her neighbors face the impending loss of their beloved community garden, young audiences are introduced to the emotions and concerns that arise when cherished spaces are threatened. The book sparks empathy and encourages children to appreciate the beauty and value of green spaces in their own lives.At its core, No Place for Plants emphasizes the power of unity and determination. It highlights the importance of working together, standing up for what you believe in, and making a difference through collective effort. It instills in children the belief that their voices matter and that they too can contribute to positive change in their communities.This is a book for every child, everywhere, for all time.
