The Tree That Was a World

Gr 2-5–Dutch author Goldewijk brings a clever collection of interconnected animal stories in his latest book that has been translated by Batchelder Award–winner Watkinson. Many tales read like fables, and students will relate to the universality of the characters’ hopes, dreams, fears, and decisions. The layered narratives would make wonderful read alouds that work across a range of ages; the stories themselves are quick and enjoyable, and older students can be pushed to analyze the deeper themes. For instance, the garden snail, terrified of falling off her leaf, is jealous of the barn swallow, soaring without care. When the snail accidentally falls to the ground, she is surprised to see she’s perfectly fine. The snail lets out a quiet shout, “about as loud as the sound of a dewdrop evaporating. But it was deep and heartfelt.” In another story, the barn swallow is searching for something that’s missing, but doesn’t know what it is. She realizes, when she finds it, that it’s the feeling of home. Other stories have magical elements that aren’t explained, such as the little owl, who may in fact be a rock, or the red squirrel, who may in fact be human. But even these moments provide much fodder for discussion. The owl wonders, “Are you what you are? Or what you think you are? Or what others think you are?” The stories are enhanced by Verstegen’s ethereal artwork, which brings the magic and wonder of the stories to life.