In the spirit of ‘Goodnight Moon’ and ‘The Curious Garden’ comes a stunning debut picture book filled with whimsy and creativity from brothers Terry and Eric Fan. One day, William discovers that the tree outside his window has been sculpted into a wise owl. In the following days, more topiaries appear, and each one is more beautiful than the last. Soon, William’s grey little town is full of colour and life. And though the mysterious night gardener disappears as suddenly as he appeared, William and his town are changed forever. With breathtaking illustrations and spare, sweet text, this masterpiece about enjoying the beauty of nature is sure to become an instant classic.
Review
‘With their first book, the Toronto-based Fan brothers have produced a masterpiece. The narrative is as subtle and delicate as the exquisitely cross-hatched illustrations and pastel colouring. Reminiscent of Maurice Sendak at his best, The Night Gardener has an irresistible old-fashioned charm.’–The Financial Times
(The Financial Times)
‘With illustrations full of warmth and an intricate attention to detail, this is a heartwarming story about community, friendship and the healing power of nature.’–The Huffington Post
(The Huffington Post)
‘This is a sumptuously illustrated, heart-warming tale of a sad town and a lonely orphan, both given new life by the kindness and skill of The Night Gardener. There is very little text, leaving the emotional impact to the gorgeous pictures, reminiscent of Levi Pinfold, Where the Wild Things Are and The Snowman. A beautiful, enchanting book with the feel of an instant classic.’
(Book Trust 2017-02-27)
‘This is a fine story with different threads running under the surface and the illustrations are excellent, realistic and full of detail […] a book to be treasured as well as read.’
(Montessori Magazine)
About the Author
TERRY FAN received his formal art training at Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto, Canada. His work is a blend of traditional and contemporary techniques, using ink or graphite mixed with digital. He spends his days (and nights) creating magical paintings, portraits and prints. The Night Gardener is his first book. Born in Illinois, he now lives in Toronto. Visit him online at krop.com/terryfan and society6.com/igo2cairo and on Facebook (Terry Fan Illustration).
ERIC FAN is an artist and writer who lives in Toronto, Canada. Born in Hawaii and raised in Toronto, he attended the Ontario College of Art and Design, where he studied illustration, sculpture and fÔÇèilm. He has a passion for vintage bikes, clockwork contraptions and impossible dreams. The Night Gardener is his fÔÇèirst children’s book. See more of his work at society6.com/opifan64 and on Facebook (Eric Fan Illustration).