Two long-time friends are putting Adelaide on the map with a national first: plantable children’s
books with characters that grow into real vegetables.
Created by Anthony Savas and Elias Anargyros, both 37, Sprout Story brings storytelling and
sustainability together in a format designed to get kids off screens and reconnect with nature,
more specifically, their gardens.
The idea grew from the values the pair were raised with – many of which were shaped by their
Greek grandparents. Backyard veggie gardens were a familiar backdrop in both families’ homes,
representing simple traditions centred around patience, connection and learning by doing.
As adults, Anthony and Elias realised fewer children experience those kinds of hands-on moments
today, with screens often replacing outdoor play. Sprout Story became their way of honouring their
grandparents’ influence while creating something modern, fun and meaningful for today’s families.
“Growing your own produce was a way of life for immigrant families,” said co-founder Anthony
Savas, whose background spans 20 years across entrepreneurship, food, wine and tech
consulting. “Those gardens taught us patience, responsibility and appreciation. We wanted to find
a way to preserve that and help families bring those lessons back.”
Co-founder Elias Anargyros, who has experience in law, entertainment management and now
works in his family’s printing business, added: “Our grandparents gave us childhoods grounded in
homegrown food and hands-on learning. Sprout Story is our way of keeping that tradition alive.”
Sprout Story launched with a series of three books – Tommy the Tomato, Cara
the Carrot and Leah the Lettuce – each carrying gentle messages about nature, kindness and
growth.
After reading, children tear out a page, soak it in water, plant it in soil, and watch as the
seeds embedded in the biodegradable paper begin to sprout.
This interactive process turns reading into a multisensory experience, reinforcing early literacy,
problem-solving skills, patience, environmental awareness, and responsibility. “Kids don’t just read about Tommy the Tomato – they actually grow him,” Anthony said. “It brings
the story to life in the most magical way.”
Although Anthony originated the idea in 2020, he first presented it to Elias in late 2023. During
2024, they undertook extensive research into product refinement and trialled plant cultivation.
This process ensured they developed a product that was engaging, safe, durable, and
entirely biodegradable.
Each book features a beautifully crafted paperback design, bound with natural cotton thread and
printed with eco-friendly soy-based inks on FSC-certified paper, making it a thoughtful choice for
both the little ones and the planet alike.
Sprout Story marks a new chapter in children’s reading – one where stories don’t finish at the final
page, but take root in the real world, growing alongside the child who planted them.
“If we can help kids spend less time on screens and more time connecting with nature, we’ll have
done our grandparents proud,” Elias said.
Priced at a RRP of $21.95 each, or $59.95 for the 3-book series, the books are currently available
for purchase online, with stockist opportunities now being explored by the co-founders. A teacher
guide is also being developed to support educators in incorporating Sprout Story into early years
curriculum across Australia.
