Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Boss writes in praise of city greenery with this appealing story about the planting of a tree in front of a child's apartment building. Frequently alliterative prose describes the sapling's positive impact on the block, as witnessed by protagonist Dani, who's portrayed with brown skin. Soon, "little birds in the tree chirped and cheeped," blocking sounds below. And while the "traffic bellowed and belched," leaves "shielded Dani from the noise and grime." Cast in mauves and blues, Alvarez's digital renderings emphasize the geometry of the city block, the attributes of the maturing tree across the seasons, and the tree as part of Dani's community, which includes figures of varying abilities, ages, body types, and skin tones. Bustling city scenes center the tree not as backdrop but as full-fledged neighbor, reinforcing the text's encouragement of stewardship. Back matter includes more about street trees. Ages 4--8. (Apr.)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 3--Dani, a dark-skinned, dark-haired little girl, lives on a busy city street with a big hole in the sidewalk. One day she is intrigued to see a tree planted in the depression, bringing chirping birds, falling leaves, nesting owls, and protection from the sun. Through the changing seasons and holidays, in all kinds of weather, the tree becomes a special friend, as much a part of the neighborhood as the bodega and city stoops. As some people deface or damage the tree, Dani and her neighbors come together to clean it up, planting flowers and removing signs, giving back in exchange for all the wonder it has given them. The illustrations are impeccable--vibrant, colorful, and full of sublime detail. Young readers will especially enjoy spotting Dani's black cat, whose big yellow eyes can be seen peering from behind a flowerpot or over a window sill. The immersive language and onomatopoeia paint a vivid picture of the everyday urban soundscape and the new, sweet sounds of birds and flapping leaves. Back matter provides additional information about the importance of street trees as well as tips on how to help them. VERDICT A simple story of a tree which transforms into a glorious celebration of life, growth, and community.--Alyssa Annico
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Review by Horn Book Review
There is a hole in the sidewalk outside Dani's building on a bustling city street. One day, two workers arrive and plant a tree in the hole. As the tree takes root, the neighborhood grows and develops with it and because of it. "The city clanged and snorted and roared...the tree rustled and swished and soothed." Along with birds and squirrels, Dani finds solace in its branches, which shield her physically and emotionally. Detailed digital illustrations reflect subtle changes over time: everything around the tree becomes brighter, more colorful, and more joyous. With close attention, readers can follow various residents and pets throughout the pages and peek into windows or catch a rooftop party. The story winds down over the course of four double-page spreads depicting a year of poignant seasonal shifts on the street, where the tree holds a place of prominence. The busy urban scene now interwoven with the rhythm of nature feels like a more connected community. Back matter includes information about street trees and their care along with additional resources. (c) Copyright 2023. 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
Dani forms a bond with the sole tree that is planted in their urban neighborhood. "In front of Dani's building was a hole. Sometimes dusty, sometimes puddly. And sometimes wild with bits of green." A double-page spread, mostly in muted pastels, shows a foliage-free urban setting of adjoined buildings. But soon a truck pulls up, and two people plant a tree in that hole. For brown-skinned Dani, the tree is a source of joy--when birds arrive, the child is woken by their beautiful songs instead of truck noises. The tree helps predict the weather, protects Dani from "noise and grime," and even offers friendship as the protagonist confides in it. Quiet, lyrical text describes the ways that typical urban sights and sounds change with the arrival of the tree; this is a good introduction to the concept of greening city streets for the youngest children. The text pointedly makes this tree more "special" to Dani than the more "magnificent" trees in the park. Depicting small details of lives lived inside and outside the apartments, the vibrant illustrations invite lengthy examination. The ending double-page spreads are a delightful combination of metaphors and vivid art as each season the tree continues to make the neighborhood a joyful place to live. Tranquil and calming, this is an ideal bedtime read. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A soothing tale of a tree that helps transform a community. (information on street trees, resources) (Picture book. 3-6) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
