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turrean's review against another edition
3.0
A sweet family history intertwined with the origins of Arbor Day.
dandelionfluff's review
2.0
Story about how an Arbor Day tradition begins at the settlement of a prairie town, and grows a community. I can't help but think, though, throughout the story, that Native Americans were probably pushed out of the prairie, had their land stolen and divided, and now these new settlers are designing their lives on their heritage. And, there are no trees because plains are predominantly places of grass and shrubs. Call me a killjoy! Oh well.
tashrow's review against another edition
4.0
Everything in the prairie town is brand new because the town itself has just been built by settlers. There is a church, stores, and a school, but what is missing is trees! Everyone donates coins to send east for trees to plant. When they arrive, Katie is alarmed at how small the trees are, but her father reassures her that they will live and grow. Katie helps her father plant the trees, even a special dogwood in memory of her mother. Year after year, the town gathered on Arbor Day to plant more and more trees. Katie now came with her own daughter to celebrate the day and linger under her mother’s tree.
This picture book is based on the creation of Arbor Day in the new state of Nebraska in 1872. Ideal for release in April, this book is a glimpse into the history of Arbor Day and the importance of planting trees. Galbraith’s text is simple and at times poetic. She uses repeating phrases and rhythm subtly and effectively. Particularly effective is having Katie as the protagonist of the story and the lens through which readers view the history and the planting. Moore’s illustrations are soft with a lovely vintage tone to them that suits the subject. The transformation from dusty prairie to a lush green filled with trees is reflected in the illustrations with a nice gradual palette change.
Pick this one up for Arbor Day! Appropriate for ages 4-7.
This picture book is based on the creation of Arbor Day in the new state of Nebraska in 1872. Ideal for release in April, this book is a glimpse into the history of Arbor Day and the importance of planting trees. Galbraith’s text is simple and at times poetic. She uses repeating phrases and rhythm subtly and effectively. Particularly effective is having Katie as the protagonist of the story and the lens through which readers view the history and the planting. Moore’s illustrations are soft with a lovely vintage tone to them that suits the subject. The transformation from dusty prairie to a lush green filled with trees is reflected in the illustrations with a nice gradual palette change.
Pick this one up for Arbor Day! Appropriate for ages 4-7.
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