Written by Margaret McNamara, Illustrated by Kerascoët
The first thing I noticed about Daisy Rewilds was of course the joyful cover artwork of a girl entwined with flowers, leaves, and sunshine. Students will be drawn to this book and want to open its pages.
This book does a beautiful job introducing naturalist concepts like composting, ecosystem health, and sustainable biodiversity to students in a fun, lighthearted way. Daisy doesn’t take a bath for 5 weeks and rewilds herself and her garden. She shines with her unique interests and grows all kinds of wildlife and flora. The story showcases the ability of a child to influence their whole neighborhood for good. Daisy’s neighborhood starts to look like a growing miracle as the natural world is allowed to take care of itself.
This book also shares an important lesson on perspective. Daisy’s parents think she is a “disaster,” but her Aunt sees her as a “blooming miracle.” Being unique and curious about the world around her is what makes Daisy so special.
I think this book will make a fabulous read aloud in my school library this Spring. As an activity after the read aloud, we can talk about native plants in our area, and maybe even scatter some wildflower seeds around the school garden beds.
Reviewed by Cara Williams, Librarian, William Penn Elementary
Review shared in February 2026
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-5
Daisy Rewilds
Written by Margaret McNamara, Illustrated by Kerascoët
Random House Studio
40 pages
Release Date: July 1, 2025
ISBN: 9780593125670
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
