Review by Horn Book Review
At the entrance to Old San Juan, a mighty banyan tree provided shelter, sanctuary, and solace to the people and wildlife of Puerto Rico for over a century. When Hurricane Maria razes the island, reducing the tree to a stump, a community marshals their spirits and resources to restore the beloved natural monument. Based on a true story, this gently told tale is a moving ode to the unity and resilience of the Puerto Rican people. The muted digital illustrations faithfully render the iconic, historic city, and center a young girl, who propels the action. The consistent use of double-page spreads creates a sense of expansiveness that mirrors the hopefulness of the narrative. Back matter provides added context and details about the tree rescue project. (c) Copyright 2025. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Orenstein-Cardona explores the impact of Hurricane Maria through the story of a stately banyan tree. The tree (in Spanish, jagüey blanco) is well known, providing shade by the San Juan Gate, which surrounds the old city. When the hurricane hits in September 2017, the tree feels he will survive. " 'I am ready,' said the tree, digging his roots deeper into the rich Caribbean soil." But this storm is worse than anything he and the people of Puerto Rico have ever experienced, and it almost kills the tree. Finally, the large tree cracks, and his large crown falls into the nearby ocean. His stump and roots remain, but in language that treats the tree in human terms "he drifted between this world and the next." An unnamed girl, with dark hair and brown skin, discovers the tree's plight and brings help. In "Behind the Story," the author discusses the true story that inspired this tale. Some may object to the anthropomorphizing of the tree, but this meaningful story evades didacticism and links the tree's resilience with the fortitude of Puerto Ricans determined to rebuild their lives. People are pictured with different skin tones, reflecting the diversity of Puerto Rico. Observant children will notice the young girl who helps the tree, pictured with her family, in many of the realistic illustrations, which picture the Caribbean island before and after the intense storm. (This book was reviewed digitally.) An engaging story about rescuing a tree and reconstructing Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. (author's note) (Picture book. 6-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
