
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the concept of 'not yet' or needs help understanding that growth takes time. Whether they are frustrated by the slow pace of a project or simply curious about where their food comes from, this story provides a beautiful anchor for practicing patience through the lens of the natural world. Through Lois Ehlert's signature bold collage art, we follow a father and child as they monitor a backyard cherry tree across the seasons. The narrative moves from the snowy winter to the blooming spring and finally the harvest. It is a gentle exploration of the passage of time and the rewarding cycle of nature, making it a perfect choice for preschoolers and early elementary children who are developing their observational skills and appreciation for the outdoors.
None. This is a secular, nature-focused book that celebrates the domestic bond between parent and child and the biological cycles of plants.
A curious 4 to 6 year old who enjoys helping in the kitchen or garden, or a child who has recently expressed frustration with having to wait for a special event or season.
This book can be read cold. It includes a cherry pie recipe at the end, so parents should be prepared for a potential request to bake together after finishing the story. A child asking 'is it ready yet?' or showing boredom with the repetitive nature of daily routines.
Younger children will be captivated by the high-contrast collage illustrations and the 'hidden' birds. Older children (ages 7-8) will appreciate the botanical accuracy and the informational aspect of how fruit develops from a flower.
Unlike many 'how it grows' books that use dry diagrams, Ehlert uses vibrant, tactile collage and a first-person narrative that centers the emotional experience of waiting and the specific relationship between a father and child.
The story follows a narrator and their father as they observe a cherry tree throughout the year. Starting in winter when the tree looks like 'sticks in the snow,' the book tracks the arrival of buds, blossoms, and protective leaves. It highlights the ecosystem of the tree, including the birds that attempt to eat the ripening fruit, before culminating in a harvest and the baking of a cherry pie.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review