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PICTURE BOOKS
Boss, Shira

The City Tree

40 pp. | HarperCollins/Clarion | April, 2023 | Trade ISBN 9780358423416 $19.99
(2) K-3 Illustrated by Lorena Alvarez. 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.
Reviewer: Julie Roach | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2023

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