Everything Grows in Jiddo’s Garden is the story of a young Palestinian girl and her Jiddo—her Grandpa!
Jiddo’s garden is a wonder. In it grows so many amazing things—to see, smell, and taste. But helping him to tend the garden teaches this young girl about even more than fig trees. It gives her a chance to discover just who she is.
Many years ago, like so many Palestinians, her family was forced to leave their homeland. But Jiddo shows her how, until they can return, tending a garden can connect them to home—and to each other!
This heartwarming debut picture book by Jenan Matari explores themes of displacement, belonging, and an enduring connection to the land. With stunning illustrations by Aya Ghanameh, it’s a poignant celebration of love, identity and hope.
Jenan A. Matari is an award-winning Palestinian American storyteller. Her work centers on narratives of resistance, resilience and culture, weaving the struggles of Indigenous peoples globally into her advocacy for Palestinian liberation. Her popular social media presence has earned her a large global following: You can find Jenan on Instagram @jenanmatari, TikTok @jenan.matari, or visit her website at www.jenanmatari.com. She lives in exile with her family on the ancestral lands of the Lenape people. This is her first book.
Aya Ghanameh is a Palestinian illustrator, writer, and designer from Amman, Jordan based in New York City. She received her BFA in illustration from Rhode Island School of Design. Her debut picture book, These Olive Trees (Penguin Random House), was inspired by the experiences of her family who cultivated her love of the land throughout her upbringing in exile. She is also illustrator of Dear Muslim Child by Rahma Rodaah (HarperCollins). You can visit Aya online at ayaghanameh.com or follow her on Instagram @ayaillustrates.
Published by Crocodile Books (September 16, 2025), 32 pages
Ages: 3 - 8
