Nature's Garden — David Smith

Nature's Garden is a fantasy book for children that combines moral and spiritual elements to challenge readers. The book was written by David Smith for his daughter, Cachella, who is now eleven years old. "I believe the book will appeal to children within the age range of eight years to fourteen years of age, although I hope that all ages will enjoy reading it," he says. The main characters are fairy children, who face danger as they work and play at home in the woods. They remain oblivious to the ultimate danger, however, which comes from mankind, whose intention is to "develop" their environment. Nature's Garden shows that our planet is shared not only with other humans, but with all living creatures. Besides the environmental theme, the author offers some coded messages within the book that are explained in its introduction. A fan of J.R.R. Tolkien, David Smith was born in London, England, and lives with his family in Dartford, Kent, just outside of London. A finance director for a machine manufacturer, Smith is also a member of The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, and attends a monthly prayer group held in Rochester Cathedral, the second oldest cathedral in England.