About David and the City Gardens
Join David, his dog Mollie, and his cat Ollie as they transform New York City’s littered and neglected “tree squares” into vibrant bursts of color and life. This uplifting tale of dirt and determination reveals how one person, armed with a shovel and a vision, can change neighborhoods—one small patch at a time!
About the Author
David Kass developed a love of gardening beginning as a young child that remains to this very day. His tree square project has been featured on The Today Show, local news programs and continues to inspire children and adults to be proactive with their community involvement. He currently lives in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, where he contributes to his favorite city.
His mission continues . . .
About the book
What is David and the City Gardens about?
David and the City Gardens is a heartwarming children’s picture book based on a true story. It follows David as he transforms neglected New York City tree squares into beautiful little gardens, and discovers that one person really can make a difference.
Is the story based on a real person?
Yes. David is a real person living in New York City, and the story is inspired by his experiences caring for tree squares.
What age is the book appropriate for?
The book is designed primarily for children ages 3–8, but its themes of kindness, community, nature, and making a difference can be enjoyed by younger and older readers alike.
Is this a fiction or nonfiction book?
It is a true story presented in a picture-book format. While the book is based on real events, it is written and illustrated to be engaging and accessible to young children.
Where does the story take place?
The story takes place in New York City, primarily in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan.
What exactly are “tree squares”?
Tree squares—also commonly called tree pits—are the small areas of soil around street trees. David began caring for these often-neglected spaces and turned them into colorful gardens for people, plants, and wildlife to enjoy.
About David
Why did David start gardening in New York City?
David grew up gardening with his family in Brooklyn and developed a love of plants at an early age. After living in the Albany/ NY Capital District area, he returned to New York City, and missed having gardens of his own. He began caring for neglected tree squares, gradually transforming them into gardens.
Did David really create the gardens shown in the book?
Yes. The book is inspired by David’s real gardening work in New York City.
Did the gardens really make a difference?
They did. David's efforts attracted attention from neighbors, passersby, and the media, while helping demonstrate how even a small patch of city space can become something beautiful and welcoming.
For Parents & Teachers
What can children learn from the book?
The story encourages children to think about kindness, community, nature, responsibility, creativity, and the idea that one person can make a positive difference. Is the book suitable for classroom use? Yes. It can be a useful starting point for conversations and activities involving gardening, nature, community, cities, environmental stewardship, and acts of kindness.
Does the book include gardening ideas for children?
Yes! The book concludes with steps anyone can take to start a city garden. The story can inspire children to look at the natural spaces around them in a new way and think about how they can help care for their own environment.
Ordering the Book
Where can I buy David and the City Gardens?
Personalized signed copies of the book are available through the www.DavidCityGardens.com website. Here you have the ability to share how you would like it personalized by stating the recipient’s name, their hobbies and interest, and any special message that you’d like to have written. Unsigned copies are also available through many large online retailers such as Amazon and Barnes&Noble.
Is the book a good gift?
Absolutely. It makes a thoughtful gift for children who love books, nature, animals, gardening, New York City, or stories about making a difference.
Are there products that go along with the book?
Yes. DavidCityGardens.com also offers special items inspired by the world of the book, including collectible pins featuring some of the characters and familiar sights of New York City.
What are the collectible pins?
The pins celebrate some of the animals and everyday New York City treasures that are part of David’s world—including David’s dog and cat companions Mollie & Ollie, squirrels, pigeons, raccoons, rats, pizza, and coffee cups.
The Real Story
Can I learn more about David’s real gardens?
Yes. The David City Gardens website and social media channels share more about David’s gardening work and the real-life inspiration behind the book. Also visit www.facebook.com/JstOnePerson and Instagram www.instagram.com/JstOnePerson Something We Can All Do
What is the message of David and the City Gardens?
At its heart, the book is about the power of one person to make a difference. You don't need a huge budget, a big organization, or a perfect plan. Sometimes a little care, creativity, and determination can help something beautiful grow.
Can I create my own “city garden”?
Of course! You can start by noticing the small natural spaces around you and finding simple ways to care for them whether that's growing a plant, tending a garden, picking up litter, or simply treating your neighborhood with a little more kindness.
FAQS
