Woodbine-Arbor; or, The Little Gardeners: A Story of a Happy Childhood

About this book

"Woodbine-Arbor; or, The Little Gardeners: A Story of a Happy Childhood" by Anonymous is a children’s story published in the mid-19th century. The narrative focuses on the idyllic lives of a family of six siblings who engage in gardening as a means of learning discipline, responsibility, and the value of hard work amidst a lush and nurturing environment. The book encapsulates themes of family, childhood joys, and the cultivation of both plants and virtue. The story revolves around Mr. and Mrs. Howard and their six children: Henry, Charles, Maria, John, Elizabeth, and Harriet, who live in a beautiful countryside home near New York City. Under their parents' guidance, the children create their own garden where they can explore and develop such skills as planting, pruning, and caring for their plants. Their adventure culminates in them building a special arbor where they celebrate their parents' wedding anniversary with fruit and flowers from their garden, reinforcing the importance of family bonds and shared joyful experiences. The book underscores moral upbringing, encouraging children to nurture not just their garden but their minds and virtues as well.