cover image Happy Birthday, Tree! %E2%80%A8A Tu B'shevat Story

Happy Birthday, Tree! %E2%80%A8A Tu B'shevat Story

Madelyn Rosenberg, illus. by Jana Christy. Albert Whitman, $15.99 (24p) ISBN 978-0-8075-3151-8

In this charmingly illustrated and fun tale surrounding the Jewish holiday of Tu B'Shevat%E2%80%94literally the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, which is the date on which the birthday of the trees is celebrated%E2%80%94Joni decides that singing "Happy Birthday" to the tree in her yard simply won't suffice. She enlists the help of her neighbor Nate to spice up the celebrations, and together they brainstorm what would make Joni's tree happy. As they water the tree, help bring it sunshine, decorate a branch, and sway in unison with the tree to keep it company, Joni is suddenly inspired with the perfect gift. The front and back inner pages, with their branchlike list of ways to help the Earth, will help children put into practice what they've learned from Joni. Vibrant colors and delightful storytelling bring the holiday, and its universal message to life. Ages 4%E2%80%937. (Sept.)