Friday, July 24, 2009

Hot off the Shelves #9

I grew up in rural Southern Maryland. We lived on 15 acres, most of which was woods. We had a humongous oak tree in our front yard, which reminds me of Steve, the main character in Our Tree Named Steve, written by Alan Zweibel and illustrated by David Catrow.

In this sweet book, which is based on real events, a dad writes a letter to his children, who are away visiting grandparents, explaining that a storm has taken their favorite tree. He details through the years the special relationship the family has had with this tree. At the end, the father reminds his children that Steve will always be with them. We find out just how on the final page. (so clever.)

Here is a fantastic resource from Indiana if you'd like some teaching points for this little gem. Whether you use it to teach anything or not, I highly recommend this charming and touching book. It's waiting for you at LaGrange Memorial Library. Check it out. You won't be disappointed.