The Big Green
(Wonder Kids)

The art is as bright and simple as the ideas expressed, and for readers inspired to make a difference in their own worlds, the author closes with directions for planting a tree. A bright promise, founded on hope and local support.

On a "long, hot day/ at the edge of the desert," two children and their community plant trees in an earnest picture book that highlights efforts to create an uninterrupted swath of greenery, per back matter planned to stretch across 11 African countries. Broad stroked, flatly applied primary and secondary colors rendered in pencil, gouache, and digital techniques establish the sandy surrounds in which the foregrounded figures undertake their efforts. Plainspoken second-person narration speeds through the process, from digging holes to watering the plants, ascribing feelings of purpose and pride to participants: "They all knew they were making a difference to their world." Closing spreads zoom forward as emerald smudges visualize the "bright future" planted by the community and the "laughter... food... safety" it offers. The result makes for a compelling call for greenification. Ages 4-8. (Mar.)

K-Gr 3--Wilson-Max's book begins with two small children, Mariam and Issa, excitedly holding hands and walking with their parents on a dry, dusty road in Mali. The children have been told that something exciting is going to happen today, and their mother and father are carrying supplies like a shovel and bags with leaves peeking out. Upon the family's arrival at a shady tree, digging commences, complete with onomatopoeia that captures the sounds of shovels and dirt flying. It's soon revealed that the family is making a garden. Mariam and Issa's Uncle Cedric arrives and tells them that the plants they will grow in the garden are their future. Unclear as to what that means, the children press him for further details. "These little trees will make life better for the animals, the birds, and all of us," he responds. Neighbors and friends arrive to help Mariam and Issa's family plant and water the plot. When they're done, all that's left is waiting for the trees to grow. An author's note at the end of the book explains that Issa and Mariam's parents are contributing to a tree-planting initiative called the Great Green Wall of Africa, which spans 11 African countries on the edge of the Sahara Desert. It is intended to stop desertification from spreading, provide habitats for wildlife, and promote food-cultivation. The book also shows readers how to plant and care for a young tree. VERDICT This lovely picture book is sure to be enjoyed by all patrons.--Tracy Cronce