A Grand Old Tree

PreSchool-Grade 2–The life cycle of a tree is introduced through deceptively simple text and art. DePalma's short, measured phrases turn facts about a tree's growth, her seasonal changes, and the home she provides to a variety of creatures into an ode to an often-overlooked part of the natural world. The fact that the tree is given a female persona makes her seem that much more alive than if she were an it. Her roots sank deep into the earth, her arms reached high into the sky. The art superbly complements the writing. The use of white space to set off the child-inspired illustration style allows the words to stand out and makes the entire design clear and crisp.