Rose Meets Mr Wintergarten

Rose Meets Mr Wintergarten is a beloved Australian picture book that champions kindness, courage and the power of simple gestures. In a neighbourhood where children fear the mysterious Mr Wintergarten and his gloomy garden, young Rose takes a bold step when her ball lands in his yard. Armed with fairy cakes and flowers, she bravely crosses into the unknown. What unfolds is a touching tale of unexpected friendship, told with Bob Graham's signature warmth and charm. This award-winning book, winner of the 1993 CBCA Picture Book of the Year, gently encourages empathy and the breaking down of prejudices, making it a timeless addition to any classroom or home library.

Educational benefits

• Encourages empathy and challenges assumptions about others.
• Supports social development through themes of kindness and bravery.
• Enhances narrative comprehension and sequencing.
• Provides opportunity to explore characterisation and setting.

Classroom ideas

• Writing: Write letters from Rose to Mr Wintergarten after their visit.
• Art: Create contrasting garden artworks: sunny vs. gloomy.
• Drama: Act out scenes showing how characters change over time.
• Discussion: Talk about first impressions and making new friends.

Information

• Ages: 4+ years
• Paperback format
• Appropriate for group reading and discussion