From School Library Journal Grade 1-3-- New illustrations
breathe freshness into this book originally published as The
Dead Tree (Parents, 1972; o.p.). It stands as a tribute to the
mighty oak tree, focusing on its majesty in maturity, through
gradual decline to final decay. The interdependence of plant and
animal life is clearly evident, including both those that seek
its shelter and those that hasten the decaying process to
prepare the soil for new life. The original text stands the test
of time, reaching its audience with power and emotion as it
directs attention to the forces of nature at work. The writing
style encourages the young to develop a sensitivity to all
aspects of nature without lecturing. Illustrations stretch from
: cover to cover across double-page spreads to immerse readers
in a forest setting. Seasons and years fade one into another
through impressionistic woodland scenes that form the background
for the oak and various animals that appear in realistic form.
Color tones reflect the seasons