The Magical Garden of Claude Monet
By Laurence Anholt
The Story
A curious girl named Julie follows her sketchbook through the French countryside and discovers a hidden garden — one that belongs to the painter Claude Monet himself.
Why It's Special
For the child who sketches everything in sight, this is an invitation into the real garden that inspired one of the world's great painters.
- Big idea: Curiosity is its own kind of compass — it can lead you somewhere extraordinary.
- Vibes: Gentle, luminous, and quietly wonder-filled.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy stories about art and artists
- like to draw or sketch what they see
- are working on noticing color and light in nature
- respond well to quiet, gentle storytelling
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & curiosity: What do you think made Julie follow her sketchbook into the countryside?
- Imagination: If you found a hidden garden like Julie did, what would you want to draw first?
- Art connection: What colors do you notice most in Monet's paintings?
- Real-life connection: Is there a place near you that feels magical enough to sketch or paint?
- Feelings & wonder: How do you think Julie felt when she first saw Monet's garden?
