Arbor Day Square by Kathryn O. Galbraith, illustrated by Cyd Moore

Everything in the prairie town is brand new because the town itself has just been built by settlers.  There is a church, stores, and a school, but what is missing is trees!  Everyone donates coins to send east for trees to plant.  When they arrive, Katie is alarmed at how small the trees are, but her father reassures her that they will live and grow.  Katie helps her father plant the trees, even a special dogwood in memory of her mother.  Year after year, the town gathered on Arbor Day to plant more and more trees.  Katie now came with her own daughter to celebrate the day and linger under her mother’s tree. 

This picture book is based on the creation of Arbor Day in the new state of Nebraska in 1872.  Ideal for release in April, this book is a glimpse into the history of Arbor Day and the importance of planting trees.  Galbraith’s text is simple and at times poetic.  She uses repeating phrases and rhythm subtly and effectively.  Particularly effective is having Katie as the protagonist of the story and the lens through which readers view the history and the planting.  Moore’s illustrations are soft with a lovely vintage tone to them that suits the subject.  The transformation from dusty prairie to a lush green  filled with trees is reflected in the illustrations with a nice gradual palette change.

Pick this one up for Arbor Day!  Appropriate for ages 4-7.

Reviewed from copy received from Peachtree Publishers.