An outcast boy named Wesley spends his summer vacation creating his own civilization in his backyard by cultivating an amazing plant that meets all his needs. In the end, he wins the respect and admiration of his peers. ( )

This is a smile and laugh out loud book. Wesley certainly does not fit the mold as a "normal" young adult. While he runs away from the bullies, he also has a wonderful self concept that enables him to hold on to the wonderful things that others call abnormal.

When school is out and summer approaches, Wesley decides to build his own garden. As the flowers grow to high levels, he smiles and decides to create his own civilization including a unique language, clothing, food, and anything else that he can credit as a differently and unique.

When the bullies realize they cannot change him, they watch him closely, and decide they might benefit from his teachings.
Soon, they become part of his civilization so that by the time school rolls around again, they all walk , talk, play their own games, and they dress differently.

This is a well-deserved Newberry Medal Award winner

The reader cannot help but admire Wesley. ( )

Author Paul Fleischman ,wrote a wonderful and colorful book about a child names Wesley and his gardening. A boy who would seem awkward to most , found his new passion in gardening. Gardening can be extremely beneficial, both on the social and personal side. Just the idea of growing a plant and watching grow over time , can give someone a huge sense of accomplishment. The plant loves the one that loves it , and anyone who does gardening has to have some love in them because without it the earth won't feel that love. Also gardening can have social benefits as well m when people stop to look at it or even try some of it's crops can initiate a conversation for those who are anxiety from the public. ( )

The story of Wesley who doesn't fit into his very traditional neighborhood. As a summer project he founds his own civilization in his backyard. As his civilization thrives the neighborhood kids become interested in what he's doing and over time, without changing who he is at all, Welsey gains friends. A great story about acceptance. This book has so much to discuss! ( )

CHILDRENS FANTASY: This is a good example of a fantasy because it is a made up story that could not possibly happen. Yet within the story there are very probable things that happen in the fantasy world that would make sense in today's world. There are very scientific things such as weaving from fibers and making ink from fruit juice, however the idea that Wes could create his own civilization in 3 months is not possible.