Big Tree is the neighborhood’s biggest landmark. It presides over street games, barbeques, 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.
"A beloved tree brings the town together even after it is toppled in a storm. . . . 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
"A strength of this title is the rich vocabulary that includes the names of vehicles like a cherry picker and professionals like lineman. . . . Interest will be high for this title. VERDICT An excellent selection for public or school libraries. It can be a go-to title to read after a thunderstorm."—School Library Journal
Laurie Lawlor’s books have appeared on many notable lists, including ALA Notable Children’s Books and ALA Best Books for Young Adults. She lives and teaches in the Chicago metropolitan area.
David Gordon is an illustrator and art director who has worked for numerous production companies, including Lucasfilm, Pixar, and Nickelodeon. His children’s books include Hansel and Diesel and Smitten. He lives in New York City.
Big Tree is the neighborhood’s biggest landmark. It presides over street games, barbeques, 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.
Praise
"A beloved tree brings the town together even after it is toppled in a storm. . . . 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
"A strength of this title is the rich vocabulary that includes the names of vehicles like a cherry picker and professionals like lineman. . . . Interest will be high for this title. VERDICT An excellent selection for public or school libraries. It can be a go-to title to read after a thunderstorm."—School Library Journal
Author
Laurie Lawlor’s books have appeared on many notable lists, including ALA Notable Children’s Books and ALA Best Books for Young Adults. She lives and teaches in the Chicago metropolitan area.
David Gordon is an illustrator and art director who has worked for numerous production companies, including Lucasfilm, Pixar, and Nickelodeon. His children’s books include Hansel and Diesel and Smitten. He lives in New York City.
