Latest news with #GrowingHome
Montreal Gazette
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Montreal Gazette
Books for Kids: Leaf through these adventures from the world of plants
Books It's not unheard of for plant lovers to talk to their plants, but it is rare for those plants to talk back. In the books mentioned here, however, potted plants carry on entire conversations with their youthful caregivers — often with surprising results. Growing Home By Beth Ferry Illustrated by the Fan Brothers Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers Ages 6 to 9 Number 3 Ramshorn Drive is home to Mr. and Mrs. Tupper, who buy and sell antiques, and their young daughter Jillian, who is going to be a botanist. It's also home to Jillian's plant Ivy, another plant named Ollie, a spider named Arthur, and a goldfish named Toasty who lives in a fish tank that turns out to be magical. (When Toasty splashes Ivy, she can move around the house and lift heavy objects; when he splashes Ollie, the latter can make things become invisible.) Beautifully written, Growing Home's 71 chapters zip along so smoothly that you'll be sorry when the book ends. By then, however, you'll have enjoyed the antics of all the characters and been swept up in their many adventures (including a break-in by a 'nefarious' would-be thief determined to steal Toasty's antique tank), you'll have expanded your vocabulary thanks to the author's thoughtful definitions, and you will probably have laughed out loud more than once at the clever turns of phrase and surprising twists of fate. A blurb on the cover declares this book to be 'an absolute delight.' That's not false advertising. And while the intended audience for this book is of elementary-school age, I can attest that even older readers well past any school age should read this book — especially if they'd like a break from the doom-and-gloom stuff that confronts them on a daily basis these days. Not only is Beth Ferry's storytelling a delight, but so are the numerous black-and-white illustrations by Toronto's Terry and Eric Fan throughout the 71 chapters. Enjoy! How to Talk to Your Succulent By Zoe Persico Tundra Books Ages 8 to 12 When Adara's mother dies in the middle of the school year, her dad packs their stuff into a trailer and says they're leaving California and going to live with Grandma in Michigan, but he doesn't tell his daughter it's because he can't bear to stay in their own home now that Mom is gone. He brings a lot of Mom's plants along and Adara recalls how her mother loved those plants and would have conversations with them. Adara herself had tried to talk to plants, but it wasn't until she and Dad moved to Michigan that she stumbled onto one in a greenhouse that spoke to her: a small purple succulent called Perle von Nurnberg. Dad buys it for her, she adds it to her mother's plants at Grandma's house, and discovers to her amazement that not only can she communicate with Perle, she can also converse with all the other plants. The result is a graphic novel about a child who learns to deal with loss and loneliness, finds a best friend in the process, and discovers that she has inherited her mother's kinship with plants. An author's note describes what prompted this book, and includes information about propagating succulents. My only regret is that nowhere is the reader told the child's mother died. Instead, we're told Mom 'passed' or 'passed away' or 'left so soon.' Why the euphemisms?
Perth Now
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Perth Now
Scott Cam breaks silence on rumours he's leaving The Block
Whispers of Scott Cam's potential departure from The Block have echoed around construction sites for months, but the popular host has confirmed he's not got his sights on the back door just yet. Last Friday, the 62-year-old told fans and crew at an intimate launch event in Victoria, that the long-running show's forthcoming 1000th episode would not be one of his last. Co-host Shelley Craft welcomed the intimate crowd as she teased the milestone episode, reportedly telling Cam 'you must have felt quite extraordinary in that'. Scott Cam is a home renovation specialist. Credit: Scott Cam/IG / IG According to New Idea, the 62-year-old responded 'it was extraordinary for me, to be involved in a show that's done 1000 episodes'. While Cam was unveiled as host in 2010 for the show's new era, Jamie Durie steered the series during its first two seasons in 2003 and 2004. Dominating the home reno space in the early 2000s, the pair were also colleagues on Backyard Blitz which enjoyed 159 episodes between 2000-2007. Durie has more recently been seen on Channel 7's Growing Home series. Growing Home with Jamie Durie. Credit: Supplied 'I didn't do the first two series, which (were) 13 episodes each, so I'm about 20 short of a thousand,' Cam told attendees at the recent launch. 'But I'm gonna get there next year, and I'll be celebrating just quietly within myself, I won't tell anybody I'll just remember when it is.' It is believed the long-time host singed a two-year contract in 2023, suggesting he's set for fresh negotiations beyond this year. 'Nothing's confirmed yet. But the network knows how much the show depends on him,' a source told the outlet. While Cam continues to enjoy his time on the tools, he's become a grandfather in recent times, which may influence his decision to settle down. 'As of 5 weeks ago, I became a grandfather to beautiful Tiggy. I'm so proud of Charlie (his son) and Amber, she is absolutely gorgeous,' he told fans in May. The Block's upcoming season will be set in regional Victorian town of Daylseford.
Winnipeg Free Press
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Winnipeg Free Press
Kitten's crayon chomping charming
What's a crayon good for other than drawing? Eating, of course. In writer and illustrator Marcus Cutler's latest picture book, The Crayon Stub (Putnam, 40 pages, hardcover, $25), a big cat finds all the crayons in the box gone, save one red stub. It doesn't notice the family kitten has crayon colours all over its whiskers. After a few moments of angst and a burst of hunger, creativity triumphs, and a 'totally spectacular' picture joins other drawings on the fridge. Cutler's subtle drawings add to his simple narrative. Children aged 2-5, many of whom may like to nibble on crayons, will also like this book. Buy on ● ● ● Wild rice was an abundant food source for Indigenous people before industries and governments began to control waterways by building dams. The loss of this nutritious grain contributed to the ruination of many communities. In Our Ancestors' Kitchen (Annick Press, 36 pages, hardcover, $24), Métis storyteller Willie Poll shows a modern-day girl learning about traditional foods in her grandmother's kitchen. Artist Shaikara David transports her back in time through colourful imaginings of her relatives as they gather rice in their canoes, looking 'happy, strong and well fed.' While she and her grandmother cook, the little girl is drawn further into the story of her ancestors and her rich heritage. Poll encourages parents and teachers to use this book as a starting point for all children to explore and celebrate their own cultures. Appropriate for children aged 4-7. Buy on ● ● ● Four characters — a goldfish, two plants and a spider — overcome their rivalries and personal issues to thwart a major robbery in Beth Ferr's Growing Home (Simon & Shuster, 272 pages, hardcover, $24). They put their heads (or rather, their wits) together in this clever adventure novel for children ages 8-11. An omniscient narrator explains the goings-on at Number 3 Ramshorn Drive, peppering the text with sophisticated, eloquent words that are precisely decoded. The story has delightful humour, valuable life lessons and, critically, kids will learn one of the most important four-letter words. With their trademark skill, Toronto's Fan brothers capture the unique setting and ironic humour of the dialogue. And, yes, there is a typewriter. Buy on ● ● ● Every child needs a pet to overcome trauma, right? In Marie Etchell's Saving Obaachan (Red Deer, 284 pages, softcover, $15), Charlie's parents have split, he's moved to Victoria and in a new school. He becomes friends with Miyu, a girl of Japanese descent, and they discover they've each been graced by the company of Buster, a chocolate lab who mysteriously turns up where and when he's needed. When Miyu's grandmother suddenly refuses to speak or eat, Buster's magical abilities help Charlie and Miyu uncover the story of New Denver, a concentration camp for Japanese Canadians in the Second World War, shocking the children's perception of Canadian history, democracy and justice. This story about friendship and finding one's way after trauma will pull at the heartstrings of readers aged 9-12. Buy on ● ● ● Teddy Fitzroy is the contemporary version of The Hardy Boys, but this young sleuth tracks down missing animals in Stuart Gibbs' All Ears (Simon & Schuster, 320 pages, hardcover $24). In this, the ninth novel in the Fun Jungle series, Teddy is on the trail of Tansy, a missing elephant that's in great danger. But after his best friend is accused of vandalism to protect a lizard habitat, Teddy must decide where his priorities lie. Along the way, he uses deductive reasoning and instinct to unmask the bad actors and bring them to justice. Gibbs seamlessly works oodles of science and information about animals into the narrative for readers aged 9-12. Buy on Harriet Zaidman is an award-winning children's writer and reviewer. Her novel, What Friends Are For, will be released in the fall.
Scoop
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Garden Marlborough Welcomes International Garden Design Star Jamie Durie As 2025 Keynote Speaker
Press Release – Garden Marlborough As part of his visit to Garden Marlborough, Durie will share insights from his latest project featured on the hit television series Growing Homea remarkable residence designed with 14 private gardens over seven levels, showcasing seamless indoor-outdoor … Garden Marlborough, in partnership with principal sponsor Bayleys Marlborough, is delighted to announce internationally acclaimed designer and television presenter Jamie Durie as the keynote speaker for this year's festival. Australian-born Durie is one of the most respected names in garden design and home improvement. With over 30 years of experience, the award-winning designer and horticulturalist leads a multidisciplinary team working across landscape, interiors, architecture, and furniture design. Together, they create innovative, inspiring, and sustainable solutions for outdoor living—spaces designed for relaxation, regeneration, and entertaining in style. Durie is the author of more than 12 garden design books and has hosted over 50 television shows worldwide. A Gold Medal recipient at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show, he is also a committed environmentalist, working with global organisations focused on conservation. His impressive portfolio spans projects from Australia to the USA, UK, Europe, Asia, and New Zealand, and includes collaborations with brands like McGuire, Pottery Barn, and Kohl's, as well as bespoke designs for celebrities such as Charlize Theron and Oprah Winfrey. As part of his visit to Garden Marlborough, Durie will share insights from his latest project featured on the hit television series Growing Home —a remarkable residence designed with 14 private gardens over seven levels, showcasing seamless indoor-outdoor integration. 'I've heard wonderful things 'I'm incredibly excited to be joining Garden Marlborough in 2025,' says Durie. 'I've heard fantastic things about the festival—its stunning location, passionate gardening community, and the calibre of talent it attracts. This will be my first time in Marlborough, and I can't wait to connect with fellow garden lovers and share some of the ideas and design philosophies I'm most passionate about.' Festival committee member and programme chair Kaara Wight adds: 'We're thrilled to welcome Jamie Durie to Marlborough as our keynote speaker. His global design expertise and charismatic presence will bring a dynamic new energy to this year's festival. We can't wait to welcome visitors from near and far to share in this unique celebration of gardens, design, and creativity.' Durie will present two engaging talks during the festival: Friday evening keynote – An Evening with Jamie Durie: A lively and inspiring journey through Durie's life and global career, with insights on future-proofing gardens for changing climates. Saturday morning – Transterior with Jamie Durie: Learn how to create seamless indoor-outdoor spaces using Durie's signature design philosophy, with practical ideas for any scale of garden. The full Garden Marlborough programme is packed with inspiration. Alongside Durie's presentations, this year's lineup features a wide variety of workshops and lectures on topics including naturalistic planting in a New Zealand context, soil health, bonsai, flax weaving, tablescaping, stylish entertaining, gin tasting, and BBQ mastery. As always, the heart of the festival lies in its renowned garden tours —with beloved favourites returning and exciting new private gardens opening their gates for the very first time. Experience the beauty of Marlborough at this unforgettable celebration of gardens, creativity, and community. WHO: For thirty-two years, Garden Marlborough has promoted the pleasures and benefits of gardening to a New Zealand and international audience. WHERE: Set in the heart of the beautiful Marlborough region, the four-day festival in November sells over 4,000 tickets to a packed schedule of garden tours, educational workshops and social events. WHEN: This year's event runs from 6-9 November. Tickets go on sale 21 July via the event website
Scoop
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Garden Marlborough Welcomes International Garden Design Star Jamie Durie As 2025 Keynote Speaker
Garden Marlborough, in partnership with principal sponsor Bayleys Marlborough, is delighted to announce internationally acclaimed designer and television presenter Jamie Durie as the keynote speaker for this year's festival. Australian-born Durie is one of the most respected names in garden design and home improvement. With over 30 years of experience, the award-winning designer and horticulturalist leads a multidisciplinary team working across landscape, interiors, architecture, and furniture design. Together, they create innovative, inspiring, and sustainable solutions for outdoor living—spaces designed for relaxation, regeneration, and entertaining in style. Durie is the author of more than 12 garden design books and has hosted over 50 television shows worldwide. A Gold Medal recipient at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show, he is also a committed environmentalist, working with global organisations focused on conservation. His impressive portfolio spans projects from Australia to the USA, UK, Europe, Asia, and New Zealand, and includes collaborations with brands like McGuire, Pottery Barn, and Kohl's, as well as bespoke designs for celebrities such as Charlize Theron and Oprah Winfrey. As part of his visit to Garden Marlborough, Durie will share insights from his latest project featured on the hit television series Growing Home —a remarkable residence designed with 14 private gardens over seven levels, showcasing seamless indoor-outdoor integration. 'I've heard wonderful things 'I'm incredibly excited to be joining Garden Marlborough in 2025,' says Durie. 'I've heard fantastic things about the festival—its stunning location, passionate gardening community, and the calibre of talent it attracts. This will be my first time in Marlborough, and I can't wait to connect with fellow garden lovers and share some of the ideas and design philosophies I'm most passionate about.' Festival committee member and programme chair Kaara Wight adds: 'We're thrilled to welcome Jamie Durie to Marlborough as our keynote speaker. His global design expertise and charismatic presence will bring a dynamic new energy to this year's festival. We can't wait to welcome visitors from near and far to share in this unique celebration of gardens, design, and creativity.' Durie will present two engaging talks during the festival: Friday evening keynote – An Evening with Jamie Durie: A lively and inspiring journey through Durie's life and global career, with insights on future-proofing gardens for changing climates. Saturday morning – Transterior with Jamie Durie: Learn how to create seamless indoor-outdoor spaces using Durie's signature design philosophy, with practical ideas for any scale of garden. The full Garden Marlborough programme is packed with inspiration. Alongside Durie's presentations, this year's lineup features a wide variety of workshops and lectures on topics including naturalistic planting in a New Zealand context, soil health, bonsai, flax weaving, tablescaping, stylish entertaining, gin tasting, and BBQ mastery. As always, the heart of the festival lies in its renowned garden tours —with beloved favourites returning and exciting new private gardens opening their gates for the very first time. Experience the beauty of Marlborough at this unforgettable celebration of gardens, creativity, and community. WHO: For thirty-two years, Garden Marlborough has promoted the pleasures and benefits of gardening to a New Zealand and international audience. WHERE: Set in the heart of the beautiful Marlborough region, the four-day festival in November sells over 4,000 tickets to a packed schedule of garden tours, educational workshops and social events. WHEN: This year's event runs from 6-9 November. Tickets go on sale 21 July via the event website
