The Vanderbeekers and the Hidden Garden

The Vanderbeekers and the Hidden Garden by Karina Yan Glaser is the second book in a series that focuses on family, friends, and the desire to make the world a better place.

In this story, Jessie, Oliver, Hyacinth, and Laney happened upon an empty lot next to the chruch that could use a little TLC. They decided to turn this sad area into a beautiful community garden as a surprise for their sister Isa and their elderly neighbors. But when their friend's dad tried to sell the spot, the Vanderbeekers had to overcome a major obstacle.

I liked this book because I admired how hard the kids worked to create a special space just for their neighbors. I also enjoyed feeling like I had been pulled into the story and was experiencing everything with them. This would be an excellent read for fifth and sixth graders, potentially seventh graders.