Book Pitch- The Tree Karen Gray Ruelle

The Tree by Karen Gray Ruelle 

• Title and author- The Tree Kevin Grey Ruelle
• Page number- 32 pages, illustrated
• Lexile, if available- 810 lexile level
• Grade level(s) & content area- Upper Elementary
• Relevance to curriculum- History from 1756-present, Civil War, Reconstruction, WWI
• Basic premise- The Tree follows the story of a majestic elm tree planted in Madison Park in New York from seed, sapling, to maturity. It chronicles historical events such as the founding of the city, various wartimes, the building of the base of the statue of liberty, and more. The park in which it has planted has served as a field for yellow fever victims, a campground for civil war soldiers, and so much more. Throughout times of trial and transition, this tree has stood tall through it all, and bared witness to the United States collective history. This book encourages readers to consider all that this tree has seen, but also all that all other trees we see everyday have also seen. Our time on this Earth is much shorter than the time trees have, so it can also help students conceptualize time. In reading this book, students across reading levels could easily do activities related to their understanding of the book, from “imagine what you would see if you were a tree”, artistic activities (the book is known for its illustrations), and writing activities to improve technical skills. The length of the book is also conducive to upper elementary, as it touches on  a lot of the standards in history, but also is short enough to be given ample time for activity and discussion as well with no need to rush or jigsaw.
• Quote from a review (professional or reader)- “Delightful description dances, as a seed pod grows into an elm tree in what is to become Madison Square Park. Seasons pass and turn to years. The elm tree stands and beholds the passage of time. First comes a cemetery, then an arsenal for soldiers, after that a fire, and finally, a park. Circus animals thunder, and a Statue of Liberty arm is built to stand watch alongside of the tree. The tree becomes a landmark, and around it a bustling city grows. Who knows when a new seed pod will take root? A calming look at how time passes and nature transcends.” Amazon review