Book Review: Watch Things Grow by Jay L O'Callaghan

A joyful, nature-loving picture book that inspires kids to get outside, plant something new, and discover the magic of watching life grow.

Welcome, friends! Today I’m delighted to share this charming children’s picture book with you as part of a Goddess Fish Promotions tour. Watch Things Grow by Jay L O'Callaghan is a bright, joyful celebration of seeds, gardens, healthy food, and the simple magic of watching something grow. Young readers follow brothers Zack and Liam as they learn how tiny seeds turn into fruits and vegetables — and discover that patience, curiosity, and care are all part of the process.

Whether you have a little gardener at home, a nature-loving kiddo, or a child who lights up at colorful illustrations, this is a feel-good story that encourages hands-on learning and appreciating the world around us.

And don’t miss the giveaway at the bottom of the post — you could win a $10 Amazon/BN gift card!

🔻 Keep scrolling to enter the giveaway! 🔻

📝 All About the Book

Watch Things Grow
By Jay L. O'Callaghan
Published by Tellwell Talent on August 2025
Genres: Children's Picture Book
Formats: eBook, Hardcover, Paperback
Pages: 44

Curious brothers Zack and Liam love healthy food—but they've never grown their own! With help from Mum and Dad, they learn how tiny seeds turn into fruits and vegetables. They discover the magic of plants, the power of patience, and why nature matters.

But will their plants really grow? And what surprises will the garden bring?

Watch Things Grow is a fun and engaging story that inspires young readers to connect with nature, get their hands dirty, and see the world in a new way. It's the first book in an exciting series that explores the wonders of nature, creativity, and the joy of learning through hands-on adventures!

🌱 Excerpt from Watch Things Grow

To give you a feel for the book’s poetic style and nature-based lessons, here is a short excerpt. It’s a sweet introduction to the themes of growth, connection, and curiosity that run throughout the story.

When we plant seeds of Life, we can watch things grow, and we truly grow because we reap what we sow.

This is true for all life forms, whether big or small, short or tall.

When we plant trees, fruits and vegetables, we will grow in more ways than you may ever know.

📚 Where to Find Watch Things Grow

Available on Amazon

🛒 KINDLE  |  PAPERBACK   |  HARDCOVER

If the above links don’t direct you to your country’s Amazon page, please feel free to contact me—I’m happy to provide the correct link.

Using my Amazon affiliate links doesn’t change the price you pay. Amazon shares a small commission with me, which helps keep this blog running—thank you!

Do you prefer to shop locally?
🛍️ You can also purchase Watch Things Grow from your favorite indie bookstore online.

Bookshop.org is an excellent option that supports indie authors—and book bloggers like me—while avoiding the big-box route.

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🌻 My Review of Watch Things Grow

Watch Things Grow is the kind of children’s book that feels like sunshine on the page. From the moment Zack and Liam begin planting, the story captures that little spark of excitement every child feels when they get to dig in the dirt, water seeds, and wonder what will happen next. Jay L O'Callaghan blends simple, rhythmic text with warm life lessons about patience, responsibility, and the joy of being connected to nature.

The illustrations by Peter Cummins are wonderfully vibrant — full of movement, color, and playful detail. Kids will love spotting the fruits, vegetables, and plants woven into the scenery, and adults will appreciate the gentle message about healthy living and sustainability.

What stands out most is the heart behind the story. You can feel the author’s real love for gardening, family, and teaching children to appreciate where their food comes from. This book makes gardening feel exciting, approachable, and magical — exactly what you want in a picture book.

It’s uplifting without being preachy, educational without feeling like a lesson, and full of positivity. A perfect read-aloud for home, classroom, or library storytime.

⭐ My Rating: 4.5 of 5 bright, nature-loving stars

🌼 Review at a Glance

I received a copy of the book as part of this tour. This review reflects my honest, unbiased opinion.

Kid's (and adults) will love the companion coloring book!

🌿 Meet the Author: Jay L O'Callaghan

Jay O'Callaghan has spent over 15 years crafting stories through writing, directing, and producing. With a background in Digital Media and Film & Television Production, he co-founded 4word Thought Entertainment in 2007, bringing narratives to life through music videos, short films, advertisements, and more.

A career highlight includes designing the graphic interface for the Kids B Safe smartphone app and directing its promotional campaign. Off-screen, Jay worked for 15 years as a chef in the aged-care industry, honing a deeper understanding of nourishing both body and soul.

Now a full-time storyteller, Jay is creating a delightful children’s series inspired by his own kids. His work blends imagination with thoughtful themes, drawing from his love of history, philosophy, and creativity. When he’s not writing or illustrating, he’s gardening, painting, or exploring new artistic pursuits.

Author Links:
Website | Amazon  | Goodreads

🌟 Closing Notes

Thank you so much for joining me for today’s children’s book feature! Watch Things Grow is a wonderful reminder that the tiniest seeds can spark the biggest excitement in young readers. I love books that encourage kids to explore the world hands-on, and this one does it with warmth, color, and heart.

If you’ve introduced gardening to a child in your life, I’d love to hear your stories in the comments. 🌱💚

Happy reading — and happy growing!

🎁 Giveaway!

Enter below for your chance to win a $10 Amazon/BN gift card—courtesy of the author.

 Look for me here ⬇️

Amazon   Goodreads   StoryGraph

#BookSky💙📚

Civil, respectful conversation is always welcome—let’s chat about books, food, or whatever brings you joy.