"A year passes.
The seedling becomes a sapling,
its stems slender branches.
After a decade, the sapling has
grown taller and is now a tree ... "
What a wonder this book is! It begins with a blue jay, and an acorn. In an attempt to evade capture by a hawk, the jay drops the acorn. A tree's life begins. Of course, the acorn's landing spot is relevant to its germination. With all necessary needs met, the seedling develops on the forest floor. Within days, the oak begins a long process to full growth.
Years pass before it is considered a tree. Through those years, it continues to grow. It becomes home to many animals, birds, and insects. Its acorns are food for forest creatures; its fallen leaves enrich the earth; it provides shelter through long cold winters; it offers shade and protection for humans; and it continues to distribute its seeds into the ecosystem.
Many years have passed before a family builds its home nearby, using wood from many of the area's trees. Then, there is another house, and another, and many more.
"What began as an acorn is now a mighty tree,
and a special part of a small town.
It is still home for wildlife.
But it is also a place for children, for couples, for families.
It is a place for celebrations.
The tree is home."
While the story of the oak's development over many years, and its impact on the environment is evident and informative, the illustrations are absolutely remarkable. Using Macron pens on Bristol paper, Henry Cole has created full spreads that will have readers returning again and again to its pages to fully appreciate all they see there. Hidden creatures and dense, detailed images demand close observation at every turn.
Back matter includes notes on building an ecosystem, and an illustration describing habitat layers within the forest environment. The inside of the dust jacket offers a careful look at the fully-grown oak tree and its resulting food web.
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