Picture Book Review: This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience and Regrowth by Sean Rubin

Looking for your next read? Check out This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience and Regrowth by Sean Rubin, reviewed by Fulco Library staff, Adrienne D.

Author/Illustrator Sean Rubin has penned the perfect children's book about 9/11, entitled This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience and Growth. Before the text, Mr. Rubin includes a quote from beloved children's author, E.B. White, about trees. This reference introduces readers to the story's narrator, the tree (also known as "the survivor tree."). In the beginning, the tree describes itself near the Twin Towers as a prelude to the events in New York City on September 11, 2001. Then, he discussed how, months later, the tree was found under the rubble. At that time, the tree was taken away and rehabilitated, just like some survivors were. Years later, the tree is brought back and enjoyed by survivors and others. Rubin uses this to compare how the tree was rebuilt, just like how New York City was years after the attacks. This comparison enables children to understand the 9/11 aftermath very concretely.

Sean Rubin does a masterful job with the child-friendly text and the beautiful illustrations in describing a difficult period to young readers. At the end of the book, he includes an author's note with his own experiences of visiting the Twin Towers as a child and also well-written text on the story of 9/11. These stories enable adults to have meaningful and age-appropriate conversations with children about 9/11 and its effects.

This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience and Growth is a must-read by parents, teachers, and others to share the 9/11 experience with young children. It is available in a hardback print copy and as an audiobook on eRead Kids with your Fulton County Library Card.

Check out This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience and Regrowth on eReadKids, or from your branch's shelves with your library card today!

This Very Tree

eRead Kids: This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience and Regrowth eAudiobook

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This post is for educational purposes and the contents are not endorsed by the Fulton County Library System or Fulton County Government.