Tuesday, November 8, 2011

The Three Trees

Three forest trees dream of what they will one day become. One dreams of becoming a royal throne; one of being a ship that can withstand any storm; and one longs to stay in the forest and grow as tall as tall can be. When they are felled, it seems their dreams are over. But as each tree is crafted into a new item—a manger, a fishing boat, and a rugged cross—it becomes clear that through the role they play in one important life their hopes are more than fulfilled.  

My Thoughts:
The Three Trees is a traditional folktale with which many are familiar but the joy of this particular version is the illustrations. Sophie Windham has created more than a picture book but rather a work of art to be enjoyed for years.
The beauty begins on the first page - Windham has created a three pane view of the trees but shown in all four seasons. The first panel shows the first tree in spring with soft colors, the center pane shows the next tree split between vivid summer colors and crisp fall tones and then finally the third tree in cool winter hues. Each page is as beautiful as the last.
 The Three Trees would make a wonderful gift for a young child for so many different occasions from Christmas to Easter to First Communion; even as a treat from St. Nicholas.
  
This book was provided to me by Kregel Publications; I received no monetary compensation for my honest review.

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