Jayden's Secret Ingredient

Jayden discovers the secret ingredient to trying something new.

Jayden loves the outdoors and the garden he created with his friend Mr. Curtis. But he's not so sure about sampling some of the garden's produce. When Mr. Curtis invites neighbors to share the harvest of scarlet runner beans, Jayden faces a dilemma. Will he find the courage to try something new?

Jayden returns for all new adventures in Jayden's Secret Ingredient. This story, which can be read as a standalone or as a sequel to the award-winning Jayden's Impossible Garden, emphasizes the importance of friendship, community, and the courage and openness to try new things. Along with Mr. Curtis and Jayden, readers learn the value of outdoor play and contact with nature, from planting a seed to sharing and eating what it produces. This story is a natural starting point for the exploration of nature, ecology, and gardening, as well as for a cooking club.

At the back of the book, a section for adults has additional activities and other information to expand on the story and its ideas.

Author: Mélina Mangal
Publisher: Free Spirit Publishing
Published: 08/01/2023
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.01lbs
Size: 10.27h x 10.26w x 0.38d
ISBN: 9781631986024
Audience: Ages 9-12

About the Author
Working at the intersection of nature, literature, and culture, Mélina Mangal's writing highlights youth whose voices are rarely heard, and the people and places that inspire them to explore their world. She is the author of short stories and biographies for youth, including The Vast Wonder of the World: Biologist Ernest Everett Just, winner of the Carter G. Woodson Book Award and named an NCSS/CBC Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People. Mélina also works as a school library teacher in Minnesota and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, whether it's in her backyard or hiking in the woods.

Ken Daley is an artist and an award-winning illustrator of two picture books, Joseph's Big Ride and Auntie Luce's Talking Paintings (Kirkus Review and Américas Award Honorable Mention). Ken draws inspiration for his work from his African-Caribbean roots, his life experiences, and the people and cultures he encounters along the way. Ken was born in Canada and currently lives in Ontario with his wife and two pets.