Book 178: We Planted a Tree

We Planted a Tree, written by Diane Muldrow, illustrated by Bob Staake, Random House 2010.


Today is Earth Day, so it seemed like the perfect day to review this book.  Earth Day celebrations began in 1970, but the earliest one I remember is 1974.  I was in first grade, and, at my school, we planted a tree.

We Planted a Tree is a sweet story that is told through a gentle, lulling poem.  Diane Muldrow manages to explain the benefits of trees without lecturing and in a way that is a delight to read out loud.  And in a way that an active four-year-old boy can understand and enjoy.

Bob Staake illustrated this lovely poem-story, so that should automatically translate as the artwork in the is book is brilliant.  If you are not familiar with Mr. Staake's work, it is brilliant; both as in colorful-brilliant and in clever-brilliant, and infused with a healthy dose of humor.

We Plant a Tree IS a perfect book for Earth Day, and for every day thereafter.