The Bear's Garden
illustrated by Alison Oliver
(Macmillan/Imprint)

A little girl sees an empty lot in a city and imagines what can be.

She sees
a place to GROW,
a place to PLAY,
and a place to LOVE.

With the help of her stuffed bear, the girl brings her community together to create a beautiful garden.

Inspired by the true story of a community garden in Brooklyn, New York, The Bear's Garden is a testament to how imagination and dedication can transform communities and create beauty for everyone in unexpected places.

A well-illustrated, beautifully written tale of encouragement... - STARRED, Kirkus Reviews 

Seamlessly marrying truth and imagination, this charming story reminds readers of the importance of one person’s care and as well as the power of community. ​- Bookroo

an affectionate ode to a community garden. - Publishers Weekly

This charming picture book celebrates the joy of working together to create beauty in surprising places. - A Mighty Girl, (Making an Impact: 35 Mighty Girl Books About Charity and Community Service) 

Inspired by the real Pacific Street Brooklyn Bear’s Community Garden, this story is a sweet reminder of how powerful communities can be when they come together to create something beautiful. - The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB)

Colleen’s text captures the hope, humor, and love of the protagonist. A great addition to the growing urban gardens genre, and a good general purchase. - School Library Journal

Give a listen to Marcie Colleen on Matthew Winner's THE CHILDREN'S BOOK PODCAST talking about all things THE BEAR'S GARDEN.