Carrie Hepple's Garden

Three children venture into Carrie Hepple's garden after their ball. But when the old woman --- known for her whiskery hair and glittering glare --- shows them some of her secrets, their initial mood of daring turns to one of respect and wonder. I am always very wary of stories told in rhyme but this one is more successful than most, and the soft, muted illustrations (on green paper) add to the feeling of mystery created by the text.