The Language of Plants - by Helena Harastova (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Think plants are boring? Think again.

The Language of Plants is a fascinating science book for kids that explores how plants communicate, cooperate, and respond to the world around them. Drawing on scientific discoveries, this engaging nonfiction title reveals how plants "talk" without voices, sense their surroundings without eyes or ears, and share nutrients and information through underground networks. Young readers will discover how plants help one another, defend themselves, and even remember past experiences.

Perfect for curious kids who love nature and science, this eye-opening book challenges the way we think about plants and the natural world. With clear explanations and vivid illustrations, it makes complex biology concepts accessible and exciting. Ideal for independent reading, classroom learning, or budding botanists, The Language of Plants encourages respect for the environment and a deeper appreciation for the hidden intelligence of plants.

Key Features:

• Plant Science Made Fascinating: Explains how plants communicate, cooperate, and respond to their environment.


• Based on Scientific Research: Introduces modern discoveries about plant behavior and underground networks.


• Accessible STEM Learning: Breaks down complex biology concepts into clear, engaging explanations.


• Encourages Environmental Awareness: Inspires respect and curiosity about the natural world.


• Great for Curious Readers: Ideal for kids interested in science, nature, and how living systems work.

For more than 75 years, Albatros Media has been crafting original and innovative children's books that are both playful and educational, fostering curiosity and a love of learning in young minds. From novelty and board books to picture books, pop ups, and nonfiction, Albatros Media is dedicated to creating high-quality books that inspire imagination and discovery.

Review Quotes

Selected by Reading Rockets for their Summer Reading List 2023: Ages 6-9

Selected for the CBC's 2023 April Hot Off The Press Reading List

"It focuses on recent scientific findings about plant abilities that challenge traditional views of plants as largely being dull. Kids learn about the parts of plants, their operations, how plants can actually call for help and warn each other, along with many amazing facts about plants that reveals their extraordinary abilities. The result differs from any other plant botany book, promising enlightening understanding not only from picture book readers, but the adults who choose this book for its extraordinary focus and bright illustrations of plant facts." --Midwest Book Review-Children's Bookwatch

"The Language of Plants is a small book jam packed with important information pertaining to plants! The education factor on this book is outstanding. It will make a valuable resource in any school library." --YA Books Central

"Kids learn about the parts of plants, their operations, how plants can actually call for help and warn each other, along with many amazing facts about plants that reveals their extraordinary abilities. The result differs from any other plant botany book, promising enlightening understanding not only from picture book readers, but the adults who choose this book for its extraordinary focus and bright illustrations of plant facts." --Donovan's Literary Services

"The information is written in a way that is easy for (targeted aged ) kids to read. It's hit or miss on the entertainment factor. The illustrations were great. They're beautiful, simple yet complex. My kids had a great time looking at the illustrations and pointing things out. The education factor on this book is outstanding. It will make a valuable resource in any school library." --Cherokee Crum, YA Books Central

"This book covers the various ways plants interact with the world around them, from sight and sound to touch and smell. The book gives scientific information along with examples of experiments that show how scientists have tested these senses. This book is good for anyone who is interested plants and wants an introduction on the topic. This is also good for middle grade readers." --Morgan Frazier, Librarian

"Packed with practical facts and delightful details, The Language of Plants will certainly inspire readers to cultivate their own gardens and local flora. Fantastic floral fun." --Olivia the Librarian, IG

About the Author

Helena Harastova is a writer, translator, and mother. She graduated in Dramaturgy from the Janacek Academy of Music and Performing Arts, having previously worked for the National Theatre in Brno, Czech Republic. Her most unusual pastime is proofreading texts for errors in spelling, grammar, and style.

Darya Beklemesheva has a higher art education, and in addition, she is constantly improving her qualifications by studying at various courses and workshops, participating in exhibitions and international competitions. She works in collage technique. She has tried many different techniques (watercolor, various types of printing, linocut), but her favorite technique is still collage.