Garmann's Secret

Reach for this book when your child seems caught in their own world or is struggling to find the words for their big questions about life and nature. It is a quiet, contemplative story about Garmann, a young boy who discovers a hidden space in the woods and shares it with a girl named Johanne. Together, they explore the wonders of the natural world and the delicate beginnings of a deep friendship. This book is a masterpiece of emotional depth, using surreal and beautiful illustrations to normalize the feeling of being a bit different or lonely. It treats the inner life of a child with immense respect and sophistication. While the art is complex, the themes of curiosity and connection are perfectly suited for children ages 5 to 9 who are navigating the transition into middle childhood and learning how to share their private selves with others.