Thank You, Trees! by Gail Langer Karwoski and Marily E. Gootman - OPTIONAL

Karwoski, Gail Langer and Marily E. Gootman  Thank You, Trees!  Illustrated by Kristen Balouch  Kar-ben, 2013.  BOARD BOOK  $5.95  Content:  G. 

This book is about the Jewish holiday Tu B’Shevat, a holiday that encourages ecological awareness and the planting of trees.  It explains the different kinds of trees that can be planted-orange, apple, etc.  Then after the tree is planted the people enjoy a picnic in the shade of the tree.  Then the book explains the importance of recycling and taking care of the trees. 

The book has a rhyming cadence that makes it enjoyable to share with young readers.  The illustrations are bright and creative.  My only complaint would be that the book doesn’t explain that Tu B’Shevat is a holiday that celebrates trees, it is inferred which can be a bit confusing for a reader that doesn’t know the Jewish holiday. 

PREK-OPTIONAL.  Reviewer, C. Peterson.