The Tree That's Meant to Be

Beautiful to behold but uneven to read. (Picture book. 4-7).

Copyright 2019 Kirkus Reviews, LLC Used with permission

PreS-Gr 2–On the cover of this book, a small, unassuming tree is center stage, with forest animals hovering about. Bits of the cover are embossed, which will appeal to the youngest hands. The little tree is passed over repeatedly as Christmas shoppers choose bigger, more impressive trees. But when the crowds are gone, forest friends go out of their way to adorn the little tree with all kinds of pretty decorations found in the forest they share. The little tree is jubilant at the end and knows that he is loved. The story is less about Christmas and more about feeling left out but ultimately finding yourself appreciated. This parable is sweet and serves as a good alternative for teachers and parents who want to avoid holiday titles with overt religious overtones. The message of feeling good about oneself makes it a natural fit for the classroom.VERDICT A good alternative for those whose holiday celebrations are not tied to a particular religion. Children will identify with the little tree’s plight and might find some adventure searching for “decorations” in the woods for their own trees.—Joan Kindig, James ­Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

“While other trees/ grew poised and tall,/ I lagged behind,” mourns a small evergreen in the midst of a forest, “looking different. Feeling small.” When winter comes and families flood the area looking for Christmas trees, the quirky conifer is left alone: “It was just me now.” After it cries out, closely worked spreads by Zommer show forest animals converging on the tree at dawn, their eyes wide open and expressive, their forms arrayed in folk perspective like a medieval tableau. A bear, a fox, and others festoon the tree with leaf garlands “until I was a jolly, festive tree,” and the sky above offers the tree a crowning touch. Finely brushed textures are applied with care throughout, conveying a sense of richness. Though the holiday theme is present, it’s less important than the idea of finding home and companionship throughout the seasons, and Zommer’s spreads convey reassurance to that end. Ages 3–7. (Sept.)

Copyright 2019 Kirkus Reviews, LLC Used with permission