Beauty, Gardening, and Rhyme: A Conversation with Janna Matthies

Join us for a delightful conversation with author and
music teacher Janna Matthies as she shares the inspiration behind
her new picture book, Over in the
Garden.





Discover how Janna's musical background, love of nature, and
teaching experience beautifully converge in this counting book
that celebrates community gardening. From adapting the folk song
"Over in the Meadow" to creating rhythmic, engaging text for
young readers, Janna reveals her creative process and even treats
us to a musical performance! Learn about her journey as an
author, her passion for finding beauty in the world, and how she
hopes her books will inspire children to explore the outdoors.
This episode is perfect for parents, educators, and anyone who
appreciates the magic that happens when music, literature, and
nature come together.





Discussion Topics:


How exercise is critical for creativity and mental health.

Being a reader is essential to becoming a writer.



Gardening and its numerous benefits for children.

Music and its influences on Janna's approach to writing
picture books.

How rhyming books can be powerful tools for engagement.

Community gardening and how it fosters teamwork and
connection.

Encouraging outdoor exploration.






Transcription: You can read the transcription on
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book
Review⁠⁠⁠


Order Copies of Over in the
Garden on
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


For more information about Janna Matthies, visit
https://www.jannamatthies.com/





Keywords: gardening, children's books, writing,
nature, rhyming books, community, creativity