Book Description
Big Tree is the neighborhood’s biggest landmark. It presides over street games, barbecues, and water fights. But crack! Oh no! Big Tree has been split by lightning!
In this warm and positive book, people from all parts of the community—neighbors, city workers, and children—come together to clean up and remember Big Tree, and to plant Little Tree in its stead. This wonderful story of neighborly cooperation and community engagement will introduce kids to the joys of being involved in the world immediately around them.
Resources
Reviews and Comments
“A beloved tree brings the town together even after it is toppled in a storm. Big Tree is “shelter, shade, hiding place. Just right for sharing secrets, leaning, and dreaming.” The landmark is the meeting place in town. But then a storm strikes. … On the final page, the narrator’s interracial family … is shown planting a new sapling. “Meet me at Little Tree.” Gordon’s richly colored illustrations portray the togetherness that is sometimes still found in small towns or urban neighborhoods. Community togetherness at its best in this celebration of a tree.” (Kirkus Reviews)
“This title shows readers what happens when a big tree comes crashing down in a storm … (uses) rich vocabulary that includes the names of vehicles like a cherry picker and professionals like lineman. The story is lively, well written … Interest will be high for this title. VERDICT An excellent selection for public or school libraries. … a go-to title to read after a thunderstorm.” (School Library Journal)
