Roots grow down; plants shoot up toward the sun; vines twist around and around. In this lively rhyming picture book, children explore how different vegetables grow in garden beds: corn goes up, onions down, pumpkins around and around. With vibrant illustrations by Nadine Bernard Westcott, the pages pulse with life while explaining the growing cycle from seed to table.
📚 Reading Age & Level
- Lexile Measure: AD290L
- Grade Level: PreK–1
- Reading Age: 3–6 years
🎓 Why Parents & Teachers Love It
- Explains botanical concepts like roots, stems and vines with playful direction words (up, down, around).
- Uses rhythmic, repeatable wording which supports early reading confidence and participation.
- Bright and detailed illustrations invite observation, discussion and curiosity about nature.
- Builds foundational vocabulary and spatial language, making it a strong fit for early learners.
Want to extend your learning? Check out the hands-on resources below for activities that go along with the story.