Join Aki on a journey through the healing world of herbs, where lavender calms, peppermint cools, and chamomile soothes the soul. Wander through gardens alive with color, scent, and buzzing pollinators as you learn how ancient wisdom and modern science meet in every leaf and flower. With lyrical verse, rich illustrations, and real plant facts, this book reveals how herbs connect people and nature, teaching care, curiosity, and respect for the living world.

Author and educator Neil Rosen is passionate about the transformative power of books on children and their families. He writes books that unite families and empower parents, caregivers, and children to impact their community positively. Neil's latest project, Can You Read Nature? encourages families to spend more intentional time outdoors to nurture future generations of environmental stewards.

Age-Appropriate Learning Guide

Ages 6–7:

Young readers will be drawn to the gentle rhymes and colorful depictions of healing plants, from lavender and chamomile to peppermint and aloe. They will learn that herbs come from nature and can be used to soothe, calm, or comfort. The simple patterns and repetitive rhythm help build early reading fluency while introducing foundational science ideas such as how plants grow, how they can help people, and how to care for them responsibly. The “Did You Know?” facts add small sparks of wonder that make learning about plants both magical and memorable.

Ages 7–9:

At this level, readers begin to explore the connection between traditional knowledge and modern science. They learn how different parts of plants—roots, leaves, flowers, and seeds—contain unique properties that support health. The book’s short factual sections expand vocabulary with accessible science words like “essential oils,” “immune system,” and “companion planting.” Readers can start to recognize cause and effect, such as how sunlight and soil quality affect growth or how herbs interact with pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ages 9–10:

Older readers can appreciate the deeper relationship between humans and the plant world, connecting themes of ecology, culture, and sustainability. They are introduced to ideas of ethnobotany and herbal traditions passed through generations, as well as how scientists today study and preserve medicinal plants. This level encourages critical thinking about conservation, biodiversity, and responsible use of natural resources. The book provides a bridge toward scientific understanding of plant chemistry and ecosystems while honoring the wisdom of ancient healing practices.