Khalil and Mr. Hagerty and the Backyard Treasures

Written by Tricia Springstubb · Illustrated by Elaheh Taherian

A quiet gardener and a young treasure hunter forge an unexpected bond.

5.8/7 Bookroo expert·4.1/5 Goodreads · 242 ratings

32 pages

$16.99Save 7%

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Bookroo's summary

In a shared backyard, young Khalil and quiet Mr. Hagerty form an unlikely friendship. Khalil searches for treasure while Mr. Hagerty tends his garden. Together, they navigate language barriers and discover the joy of companionship. As they share chocolate cake and stories, their bond grows, celebrating the power of intergenerational and intercultural connections. What treasures will they unearth in each other’s company?

From the publisher

A sweet friendship spanning age and culture blooms in a shared backyard. Khalil lives in the upstairs apartment with his family, which is big and busy and noisy. Downstairs lives Mr. Hagerty, who is quiet. Khalil and Mr. Hagerty don’t appear to have a lot in common, but hot summer days have a way of bringing people together. As Khalil looks for buried treasure in the yard, Mr. Hagerty tends to his garden. Both help each other navigate language – whether it be learning new words or remembering those seemingly forgotten. Before long, an unlikely friendship is born, full of treasure, thoughtfulness, and chocolate cake. Through well-cultivated details and vibrant cut-paper collage, author Tricia Springstubb and illustrator Elaheh Taherian nurture a heart-tugging tribute to the love of good neighbors and to the strength of intergenerational and intercultural bonds.

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