The Little Tree

PreS-Gr 2—A little tree in a forest, threatened by human encroachment, sends its seed away to grow in a place with more promise and then longs for the seed after it is gone. This is a metaphorical tale of loved ones moving away and the pain and loss experienced by those left behind. The author explains her inspiration in an interesting endnote. The metaphor works well, but the text and illustrations aren't always in sync. For instance, several times the little tree consults a "brown bird," but it has a bright yellow body, purple beak, and red crest (only the wings and the very tip of the tail are brown). However, the illustrations are lovely and fun, with cheerful forest animals and trees depicted in bright saturated colors: deep greens and browns, with contrasting notes of red and blue and purple in animals and sky. The illustrator uses color to mirror emotions, with darker background colors for the little tree's melancholy and bright gold for her joy. The art is mixed media, with gouache layers adding depth and color, while stamps and color pencil add texture. The poignant story and the colorful art will appeal to many.