Ames, Iowa — May 19, 2026 – Reiman Gardens is pleased to announce the release of Adventures with Elwood the Gnome: “Small Things” — a new children’s picture book inspired by the Gardens’ beloved oversized gnome and its 2026 seasonal theme, Big and Small.

Written by Reiman Gardens Marketing and Communications Director Andrew Gogerty, illustrated by Ames artist Tim Read, and printed locally by Heuss Printing, the book is available for online ordering now. It will be officially released June 11 at Reiman Gardens with a reading and author/illustrator signing at 10:15 a.m.

In the story, Elwood — a gentle giant who towers over the gardens — finds himself feeling lonely, wondering if he’ll ever find someone who looks like him. With help from garden friends including the energetic Rodeo Rabbit, the adventurous Beverly Butterfly, and conservatory band The Sassy Succulents, Elwood realizes that it’s the small things — and unexpected discoveries — that bring the greatest joy.

“Elwood has been a big part of the Reiman Gardens experience for 15 years, and we’re excited to give visitors a story they can take home,” said Gogerty. “This book celebrates friendship, belonging, and the joy of discovering wonder in everyday moments.”

Written for children ages 3–10 and gnome lovers of all ages, the book includes a brief history of Elwood and a scavenger hunt featuring items readers can find both in the story and throughout Reiman Gardens.

Availability

The book is available online now through Heuss Printing and reimangardens.com. Pre-orders include a signed copy and a package of character stickers. In-person sales begin June 11 at 10:15 a.m. in the Reiman Gardens Gift Shop. Retail price: $20.

About the Creators
Andrew Gogerty — Author: A lifelong Iowan and storyteller, Andrew Gogerty has been crafting stories since his first book in 2009, with work appearing in local newspapers and a second book following in 2021. Adventures with Elwood the Gnome is his first children’s book — inspired by the charm of Reiman Gardens, visitors’ enduring love for Elwood, and the readers closest to his heart: his wife, a local library director; his children; and his newest and tiniest fan, his first grandchild, born in March 2026. Andrew serves as Marketing and Communications Director at Reiman Gardens.

Tim Read — Illustrator: An Ames-based illustrator and graphic designer with more than 30 years of experience, Tim has completed 24 illustrated book projects. Long-time Reiman Gardens members, Tim and his family have a deep appreciation for the Gardens — making this a natural collaboration.

Heuss Printing — Publisher: A local Ames printer, keeping the project rooted in the community that inspired it.

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