This inspiring true story follows Nek Chand, a man who lived through the partition of India and missed the beauty of his childhood village. Working as a road inspector in the city of Chandigarh, he began transforming a hidden clearing of jungle into a magical world. Using discarded materials—broken pottery, glass bangles, and river stones—he secretly built the Rock Garden of Chandigarh. When his secret was finally discovered by the government, the community rallied to save his masterpiece, which is now a world-renowned art site.
The book is a testament to how one person’s vision and persistence can turn “trash” into a kingdom of beauty. The vibrant illustrations capture the texture and scale of Chand’s work, making it an excellent resource for discussing perseverance, environmental art, and cultural history.
Grade Level: K-3
Genre: Biography & Memoir
Format: Picture Book
Content:
Art History
Environmentalism/Recycling
Social Studies (India)