First Garden: The White House Garden and How It Grew

The White House kitchen garden, part of Michelle Obama’s campaign to encourage healthful eating, was established in 2009. This book tells the story of Mrs. Obama’s garden, as well as the story of the White House grounds, the other gardens (including Eleanor Roosevelt’s Victory Garden in World War II) that came before, the White House children who have played there, and the teamwork, involving local children as well as the Obama family and White House staff, that led to the garden now flourishing on the South Lawn. This is a lighthearted, entertaining, and lavishly illustrated introduction to an inspiring and much-publicized project. Includes recipes. |

"The foreword by Alice Waters, restaurateur and founder of the Edible Schoolyard program, may draw adults to the book, but Gourley’s clear, focused writing and lively illustrations will keep children engaged. A fine choice for introducing to children to the rewards of gardening at home or at school."—Booklist, starred review