This is Kirsten’s second picture book after her charming debut Like a Gannet. She says: When I write, I often start with an emotion and go from there and my books often have themes of nature, friendship or community.
Friendship and community are at the heart of The Big Backyard Plan as four children who live side by side and back to back concoct a plan to integrate their four backyards into one large community space that all four families can enjoyl. Its a lovely idea that after some initial problems, has everyone cooperating, sharing, planning and working together. All the advantages are obvious to the children but the parents take a little time. Its a grand idea if everyone is on board.
The text flows well developing the ideas in rhyming couplets that have a gentle rhythm. There is plenty of scope for Laura Stitzel to augment this text with colourful vivid artwork. The four children and their families are a diverse bunch of people so most readers will find someone to identify with. Here we see the power of strong friendships in action which may encourage children to take the initiative. Any book that promotes the advantages of cooperation and shows the positve benefits thereof is a valuable learning tool for parents and teachers and The Backyard Plan is one that will generate discussion and even some action maybe.
This is Kirsten’s second picture book after her charming debut Like a Gannet. She says: When I write, I often start with an emotion and go from there and my books often have themes of nature, friendship or community. 
