A Bit of Earth [Hardcover]

“Destined to be a new classic.” —School Library Journal(starred review)

“This story will find its way into your heart.”—Tae Keller, Newbery Medalist forWhen You Trap a Tiger

What might happen when an overlooked orphan feels the sudden urge to put down roots? This tender coming-of-age story about friendship, family, and new beginnings is a reimagining of the classicThe Secret Garden. Perfect for fans ofOther Words for HomeandThe Bridge Home.

For as long as she can remember, Maria Latif has been bounced between reluctant relatives. And it never takes long for her guardians to tire of her. So when old friends of her parents offer to “give her a better life” in the United States, Maria is shipped to a host family across the world. Her new home is full of surprises. Perhaps the biggest is the almost-hidden gate to an off-limits garden. Since she’s never been good at following rules, Maria decides to investigate and discovers something she never thought she’d find: a place where she belongs.

Told in rich prose interspersed with evocative free verse poetry, this tender yet incisive reimagining ofThe Secret Gardenwill captivate fans of the classic—and widen the appeal for a modern audience. For fans of Karina Yan Glaser, Laura Amy Schlitz, and Chanel Miller.

“As timeless as it is timely,A Bit of Earthis a rare gift.”—Laurel Snyder, author of National Book Award nomineeOrphan Island

“Extraordinary, poetic, and inventive.A Bit of Earthis such a special book.”—Jasmine Warga, author of Newbery Honor bookOther Words for Home

“A sweet and warm-hearted tale with unforgettable characters.” -Aisha Saeed, bestselling author of Amal Unbound

“An ambitious re-envisioning of a long beloved classic, this book lã.