In 2019 we continue our journey into the science of the plant world by going back to where it all started … seeds.

We are thrilled to announce The Triumph of Seeds: How Grains, Nuts, Kernels, Pulses, & Pips Conquered the Plant Kingdom and Shaped Human History (2015) by award-winning author Thor Hanson as our Community Read selection!

Hanson‘s warm and engaging writing leads us to discover the power that seeds contain, their ability to endure, and the journeys they take. These amazing marvels of nature explode into extraordinary beauty both tiny and grand and, in turn, nourish and inspire human life.

We’ve also chosen Seedfolks as the Community Read book for middle grade readers. Written by Paul Fleischman, Seedfolks tells the story of how the simple act of a 9-year old girl planting lima bean seeds sparks 13 very different individuals from various ethnic backgrounds, cultures, and age levels to come together to create a community garden.

Our youngest readers will love The Reason for a Flower by author Ruth Heller. In this book about flowers, pollen, and seeds, Heller introduces young readers to parts of plants and their functions in her trademark rhythmic style.

Join Longwood Gardens and our community partners for the sixth year of our Community Read—a program designed to encourage reading for pleasure and to start a conversation. Read with us and engage in an event to learn more!

Follow us @LongwoodGardens and share your ideas using the hashtag #CommunityRead.