A Forest in the City (Thinkcities #1)

Gr 4-6--The trees that make cities cleaner and more beautiful are often placed under unbearable stress. This nonfiction picture book explains the bounties of the urban forest and the many problems that threaten a tree's survival. Climate change, poor soil, drought, heat, and dogs all pose hazards to trees. Many city trees cannot live longer than seven years. The book begins with a bird's eye view of a city full of trees and then shows the interconnected root systems, the benefits of planting appropriate trees, and the care needed for long-term maintenance. Watercolor illustrations enhance the informative text. Curtis provides a short history of trees as necessary parts of ever-growing cities, describes the diseases and blights affecting them over time, and offers a clear explanation of the complexity of urban forests. A short glossary, websites, and books are listed. A list of activities to bring recognition to the role of trees for the future of cities and its inhabitants is mentioned. VERDICT The vital importance of the urban forest in relation to the welfare of city dwellers is presented with interesting information and lush illustrations. Useful for reports, projects, and classroom activities.--Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, formerly at Trinity-Pawling School, NY

This first entry in the narrative nonfiction ThinkCities series provides an informative look at the necessity of trees in urban environments. First providing abbreviated, high-level histories of events that affected trees, such as settler colonialism and industrialization, Curtis next shares information about root systems, how city trees differ from their wild counterparts, and how environmental factors affect trees' life spans. Pratt's rich landscape art, painted in gouache on paper, is juxtaposed with the cartoonish style of the human populace, perhaps emphasizing the divide between civilization and nature. Though the tone can be inaccessible ("These soil cells prevent soil compaction and ensure adequate growing space for the London plane trees that shade visitors to the site"), the book serves as a comprehensive source for those interested in arboriculture and ecology. Back matter suggests ways for readers to encourage the well-being of their local urban forest. Ages 8-12. (Apr.)