The Inspiration for THROUGH THE GARDEN GATE by Sharon Rose
During the pandemic, I found myself reflecting deeply on legacy—on what I might leave behind. I remember sharing these thoughts with my dear friend Joan LeMahieu, whose garden inspired many of the moments in Through The Garden Gate. Over the years, she has been not only a creative influence, but also a cherished friend and mentor.
I kept asking myself: What can I offer the next generation? What values, experiences, or sense of wonder could I pass along?
As a garden designer, I spend my days creating outdoor spaces for residential properties, but my work has always been about more than aesthetics. Being a steward of the land—caring for the natural environment—is deeply important to me. Preserving native habitats, preventing urban sprawl, and protecting and expanding our national parks are not just ideals; they are responsibilities we all share for the wellbeing of every living creature.
At the same time, I’ve grown increasingly concerned about how disconnected both children and adults have become from nature—and, often, from one another. Too frequently, I see moments where attention is pulled toward a screen rather than the people right in front of us, especially children. While technology is an essential part of modern life, so too is the need to connect: with each other, and with the natural world around us.
I began to wonder how I could express these ideas in a way that would resonate with children. Without children of my own, the idea of legacy—of offering something meaningful—continued to gently nudge me forward.
Through The Garden Gate became my answer.
Within its pages are small invitations to curiosity: moments where readers discover plants that open with the sun, and others that bloom only under the quiet glow of moonlight. Scientists are still uncovering the mysteries of how plants communicate and interact, and I wanted to share a sense of that wonder—of how much there is still to learn, see, and explore.
My hope is that this book sparks curiosity in children, encouraging them to ask questions, to observe more closely, and to remain engaged in the magic of discovery.
Above all, I hope it inspires children to step outside, to explore, and to form a deeper connection with nature—and that it creates space for parents and children to bond, perhaps sharing this story together at bedtime.
Writing this book was, for me, an offering—a small gift to the next generation.
It is captured best in the wish I share at the end of the story:
May your curiosity and wonder grow.
THROUGH THE GARDEN GATE
A classic story for the modern era, Through the Garden Gate is a beautifully illustrated picture book that takes readers on a journey from the mundane to the magical, exploring the wonders of the garden through a child’s imagination.
Miles is bored one summer’s day—until a visit to a neighbor leads to a surprising discovery: a mysterious garden gate—and the adventure of a lifetime. What begins as an ordinary afternoon transforms into a magical journey filled with fairies, curious critters, and the most enchanting plants.
Every plant Miles encounters is based on real-life flora, carefully and accurately illustrated by Erin Brown. Readers can learn more about them in the back of the book, too!
Written by debut author and renowned garden designer Sharon Rose, Through the Garden Gate will take root in your imagination, delighting young readers and reminding us all of the magic that lives in the garden.
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About the Author
Sharon Rose is an award-winning garden designer and environmental artist based in San Francisco. She is the founder of STUDIO SF Landscape Design, where she revitalizes natural landscapes and creates distinctive outdoor spaces. With over two decades of experience, her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Sunset Magazine, and Luxe Interiors + Design. She is passionate about inspiring children to see the magic in the natural world.
About the Illustrator
Erin Brown is a Northern Irish illustrator based in Jersey, Channel Islands. Known for her detailed, traditional-meets-digital style, her work includes Tales from the Forest and Finding Calm in Nature. She draws inspiration from folklore, nature, and her coastal upbringing.
Category: On Writing
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