SUBMITTED BY YOUTH SERVICES STAFF
It’s finally November in Georgia and you know what that means…fall is just around the corner. The trees are just starting to take the hint and soon the north Georgia woods will be aflame with color. But before you leaf your house to take a look at the fall scenery, sit down with the family and open one of these great tree books. All four of these titles are perfect for elementree age kids. Be sure to log on to our website and see if they’re available at your local branch. Yew won’t regret it!
A Tree is Nice by Janice May Udry
This 1957 Caldecott Winner is a true classic that reminds us that, gosh darnit, trees are really nice. Though both its pictures and words seem quaint compared to sleeker, modern picture books, there’s a timelessness and power in the way Udry walks us through the ways in which trees matter to all of us. Even the most tech-obsessed kids will enjoy the quiet subtlety of Udry’s trees.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
If the kids can get past the terrifying picture of Mr. Silverstein on the back cover, they’ll remember this book forever. Its message of selfless sacrifice is both challenging and touching. Readers of all ages will take away something different from this title, making it a perfect book to use as a launch pad for conversations on more difficult topics such as greed, consumerism, simplicity, and kindness.
The Great Paper Caper by Oliver Jeffers
Oliver Jeffers is in a league of his own when it comes to quirky illustrations and this title is no different. Follow a motley collection of animals as they investigate the mysterious disappearance of the trees. Forest forensics, courtroom drama, and paper airplane championships are all part of this hilarious book. There’s more than enough drama and humor in this title to keep both children and parents entertained.
Tap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson
This is the perfect book for the fidgety child. Each page demands taps, knocks, or wiggling in order to bring about the magic hidden in winter’s bare brown tree. Follow the yearly cycle of an apple tree and encourage your little ones to find every difference from page to page. Part story of a tree, part magic trick, part introductory text book, Matheson truly pulls of an impressive magic trick by giving us this memorable lap read.