The Green Kingdom

“Old riddles provide a modern girl with a summer adventure….The broad range of featured plants includes many that are likely to be familiar to readers. Co-authors Hartung, who has botanical expertise, and Funke, whose original German text was translated by Anna Schmitt Funke, add magic to the mundane, collaborating to create a realistic story that nevertheless feels wonderfully fantastical. Castrillón’s delicate illustrations have an old-fashioned feel and provide marvelous atmosphere as well as effectively highlighting the various plant species.” – Kirkus Reviews

“Hartung’s botanical expertise matches Funke’s narrative prowess, resulting in epistolary language that is natural and playful, as are the lush illustrations invitingly placed throughout…A solid purchase and easy recommendation for those who enjoy place-based mysteries with a twist.” – Booklist