Christmas Trees

A sturdy work of nonfiction, this book takes a Christmas icon that is generally considered from a strictly emotional viewpoint and thoughtfully expands on that information. Patent shows readers the hard work that is part of a tree farm, an industry that requires less-than-perfect soil, thick gloves to protect the workers from needles, and the ability to gauge, with precision, the moment the trees can be cut and sent to market. Munoz offers both standard pictures of decorated trees and more surprising scenes: small snow-laden trees lined up on a grid, viewed from an aerial vantage point; a field of pumpkins next to a field of trees. This could be considered a rather specialized subject, but it has more than seasonal appeal. Ages 7-11. (December)