A Park Connects Us

An ode to urban parks and the many ways they connect us to community and nature

This picture book excursion through a city park invites readers to discover how shared green spaces bring us together. Lyrical, upbeat text illuminates the abundant gifts the park offers. Vibrant mixed-media illustrations show a diverse group of visitors as they explore this communal space. Children frolic; couples wander; flowers bloom and birds zoom; friends and families picnic and play ball or simply sink their toes peacefully into the present moment. Meanwhile, rolling hills and green trees enfold visitors in nature's beauty. Encouraged by the sense of unity the park creates, the visitors come together for a joyful dance party and a march for peace and equality. Spread by spread, we see how urban parks are for everyone--whoever we are.

This love letter to public parks depicts an inclusive and accessible space where community flourishes. Without a screen in sight, it gently hints at the adventures to be had offline and encourages readers to venture into nature and connect with their neighborhoods. Back matter provides a brief history of urban parks in North America and highlights park successes around the world.

SARAH NELSON is a poet, teacher, and the author of several books for young children, including Frogness and the I Like the Weather series. Sarah's stories and poems explore a variety of themes, but she especially loves writing about nature and often spots book ideas in the parks around her Minnesota home as they hop, honk, or pedal past.

ELLEN ROONEY is a collage artist and picture book illustrator. Originally from the state of Massachusetts, she now lives in the southern Okanagan Valley in British Columbia with her husband and dog.