The Garden Grump

The first book in The Garden Grump series, read by the award-winning narrator Peter Kenny.

As heard on BBC Radio Somerset, and coming soon to Somerset Life magazine.

Written in whimsical rhyming verse by Christopher Turner, The Garden Grump is a funny, tender animated storybook about the most unlikely of friendships, big feelings and learning that sometimes the greatest comfort of all are the simplest of things. It’s a tale filled with laughter, mischief and moments that feel like a warm hug.

Step through the garden gate and wander down the path to meet a charming cast of garden neighbours and one remarkably stubborn flower waiting at the end. With a bright yellow bloom and a fondness for gloom, he might just turn out to have the biggest heart in the whole garden.

Beneath the playful mischief lies a gentle truth: it’s completely okay to have a grey day. Happily ever after doesn’t demand a forced smile or a sudden change of heart. This is a story where nobody has to change who they are to be deeply, unconditionally loved.

Rich, expressive narration gives every character a unique voice, while a softly painted watercolour world comes alive around them. Wings flutter, leaves stir and small, magical surprises wait to be discovered on every return.

Though written for younger children, its message is for everyone: it’s okay not to be okay, and sometimes just being there is enough.

For children and the grown-ups who love them, this is a story to share, linger over and return to again and again. A little garden with a great deal of heart.

Come through the gate. Daisy may not welcome you… but everyone else will.

A classic original story and verse by Christopher Turner. A Read Aloud book: every word is spoken by the narrator and lights up as it’s read, so even the smallest listener can follow along. Turn the pages yourself, or let the book turn them for you.

Every character and scene was sketched and designed by Christopher Turner, then digitised and animated using AI tools to create this animated edition.