I first noticed Henri Sorensen's lovely illustrations in this Robert-Frost-for-young-people book. It impressed me so much that I went looking for more books by him, and found this exquisite narrative of the life, death, and dissolution of a tree... The sparse text describes the passing of time and how different creatures shelter in the tree at different stages of its existence, and the illustrations bring it all to life - from the autumn scenes of squirrels amid the orange leaves, to a snowscape highlighting the fast-failing trunk, to a windstorm so deftly drawn that you can almost see the hawk's feathers ruffling... A very beautiful book! [This book was originally published as The Dead Tree; while the message of the text is a worthy one in any case, I do think that Sorensen's illustrations really make the book.]

RELEASE NOTES:

In honor of the first day of spring, I left this lovely book propped up against a bridge support on the far side of the bridge just inside the Whipple Street entrance of Mine Falls Park at about 4 pm. There were quite a few people strolling or biking through the park, so I hope someone finds and enjoys the book!

This story is amazing. Good for both children and adults. I was going to the park for a run when I "captured" it by the railing. I had forgotten that it was the first day of spring until today! I am visiting a friend in Hawaii and plan to take the book there for it's new journey. They don't get to see fall so it might be even more appreciated.

CAUGHT IN NASHUA NH US