Overview

One small garden. One big voice. A story of courage, nature, and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Maple’s Garden is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that introduces young readers to the power of standing up for what’s right—and how even kids can make a difference. Inspired by a real constitutional case, this uplifting story follows Maple, a nature-loving girl whose wild, pollinator-friendly garden is threatened by city laws and a meddling mayor. But when rules clash with values, Maple discovers her voice—and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Written by Christine Van Geyn, a leading constitutional lawyer and civil liberties advocate, Maple’s Garden explores freedom of expression in a way children can understand, connect to, and be inspired by. Paired with enchanting illustrations by Lisa Ng, the story delivers a powerful civics lesson wrapped in the warmth of a mother-daughter bond, a love of nature, and a sweet plate of pancakes. Key Themes of Maple's Garden - True-story inspiration: Based on real Canadian legal cases defending natural gardens and expression rights. - Civic education for kids: Introduces core democratic principles in age-appropriate language. - Empowering message: Encourages kids to express themselves, respect diverse perspectives, and care for the environment. - Curriculum tie-ins: Perfect for classrooms teaching about Canadian rights, the Constitution, environmental studies, or social justice. - Family-friendly tone: Ideal for read-alouds and bedtime stories with a message that resonates long after. Whether you're a parent, teacher, librarian, or bookseller, Maple’s Garden is a timely and inspiring resource to help young Canadians understand and celebrate their freedom to express what matters most.

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9780888903730

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Author Information

Christine Van Geyn is a civil liberties lawyer with the Canadian Constitution Foundation and lives in Toronto, Ontario. The CCF is a legal charity that fights for fundamental freedoms in Canada through public interest litigation. Christine is also the host of the national broadcast television program Canadian Justice, and has a YouTube channel and a podcast called ""Not Reserving Judgment"". This is her third book. Lisa Ng resides in Hamilton, Ontario. As a child she immediately held an interest in being a poet of sorts. She attended the Dundas Valley School of Art and graduated from the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) 2007, obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts majoring in Integrated Media. LISA NG is a surrealist painter whose award-winning art is widely collected around the world. This is her first illustrated work, but she’s currently writing and illustrating her own picture book. Visit her website at www.lisangart.com.

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