The City Tree

K-Gr 3--Dani, a dark-skinned, dark-haired little girl, lives on a busy city street with a big hole in the sidewalk. One day she is intrigued to see a tree planted in the depression, bringing chirping birds, falling leaves, nesting owls, and protection from the sun. Through the changing seasons and holidays, in all kinds of weather, the tree becomes a special friend, as much a part of the neighborhood as the bodega and city stoops. As some people deface or damage the tree, Dani and her neighbors come together to clean it up, planting flowers and removing signs, giving back in exchange for all the wonder it has given them. The illustrations are impeccable--vibrant, colorful, and full of sublime detail. Young readers will especially enjoy spotting Dani's black cat, whose big yellow eyes can be seen peering from behind a flowerpot or over a window sill. The immersive language and onomatopoeia paint a vivid picture of the everyday urban soundscape and the new, sweet sounds of birds and flapping leaves. Back matter provides additional information about the importance of street trees as well as tips on how to help them. VERDICT A simple story of a tree which transforms into a glorious celebration of life, growth, and community.--Alyssa Annico

Boss writes in praise of city greenery with this appealing story about the planting of a tree in front of a child's apartment building. Frequently alliterative prose describes the sapling's positive impact on the block, as witnessed by protagonist Dani, who's portrayed with brown skin. Soon, "little birds in the tree chirped and cheeped," blocking sounds below. And while the "traffic bellowed and belched," leaves "shielded Dani from the noise and grime." Cast in mauves and blues, Alvarez's digital renderings emphasize the geometry of the city block, the attributes of the maturing tree across the seasons, and the tree as part of Dani's community, which includes figures of varying abilities, ages, body types, and skin tones. Bustling city scenes center the tree not as backdrop but as full-fledged neighbor, reinforcing the text's encouragement of stewardship. Back matter includes more about street trees. Ages 4-8. (Apr.)

★ "A simple story of a tree which transforms into a glorious celebration of life, growth, and community." — School Library Journal (starred review)

"Dani forms a bond with the sole tree that is planted in their urban neighborhood; this is a good introduction to the concept of greening city streets for the youngest children. Tranquil and calming, this is an ideal bedtime read." — Kirkus Reviews

"Bustling city scenes center the tree not as backdrop but as full-fledged neighbor, reinforcing the text's encouragement of stewardship." — Publishers Weekly

"Detailed digital illustrations reflect subtle changes over time: everything becomes brighter, more colorful, and more joyous. The story winds down over the course of four double-page spreads depicting a year of poignant seasonal shifts on the street. Back matter includes information about street trees and their care along with additional resources." — Horn Book Magazine