The 2014 Giverny Award-winning book showcases the growth of a young girl and her companion tree. We think that everyone in the age-band (ages 4 to 8) of children’s science picture books will enjoy the story and artwork of Maple.
The book highlights the changes of a deciduous tree through the interactions of a young girl. Before Maple is born, her parents planted a maple tree in her honor. The book then reveals the growth and seasonal changes of the maple tree through Maple’s relationship with it. As a nature-loving, rambunctious little girl, Maple seeks her companion tree when she is in the mood to be loud, which is often! When her baby sister needs calming, Maple knows just what to do—and she shares her tree.
In addition to accurate botanical content, the book also includes basic physical science concepts, such as the phase changes of water. The ecosystem of the tree is also portrayed through nesting birds, from the construction of a nest to the laying of eggs.
Several themes of birth and growth are revealed through the artwork, including the planting and growth of trees, nesting birds, and the arrival of a new sister for Maple.
Nichols’ illustrations were rendered in pencil on Mylar, and then digitally colored. The maple leaf rubbings provide a verdant background against which the story is set.
The 2014 Giverny Committee hopes that Nichols’ debut science picture book will mark the beginning of a prolific career!
