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matilda_holroyd_'s review
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
mat_tobin's review
4.0
The Boy Who Grew a Tree, written by Polly Ho Yen and illustrated by Sojung Kim-Mcarthy, is a heartwarming story about a boy named Timi who has a passion for growing plants and observing nature. When Timi's mum becomes pregnant, he is sent to after-school club and looked after more by his auntie. When his mum has the baby early, she has to stay in the hospital until Timi's new baby sister is big enough to come home. Feeling lonely and abandoned, Timi discovers a plant growing unexpectedly in a derelict library, and returns regularly to look after it. The plant responds rapidly to his care and attention and soon fills the library, but its days may be numbered as the library is due to be demolished.
The story is a celebration of the natural world, the importance of libraries, and the power of community activism. It also sensitively explores a child's unsettled feelings and changing family dynamics when a new baby is born, particularly in cases where there are initial health concerns. The cyclical nature of the story is satisfying, and the themes of nature and community are important.
The book features a diverse cast of realistic, modern children and is accessible and engaging for newly independent readers. Timi is a well-developed character, highly observant and introspective, which will be relatable to introverted children who enjoy being alone. The soft black and white illustrations by Sojung Kim-Mcarthy perfectly match the warmth of the story and offer good support to those who may struggle to visualize as they read. Family life is depicted with great skill, and Timi's emotions are conveyed through his expression and body language.
A gentle and thought-provoking short novel that celebrates quiet children and offers a relatable story for those who have experienced the birth of a sibling: great for KS1.
The story is a celebration of the natural world, the importance of libraries, and the power of community activism. It also sensitively explores a child's unsettled feelings and changing family dynamics when a new baby is born, particularly in cases where there are initial health concerns. The cyclical nature of the story is satisfying, and the themes of nature and community are important.
The book features a diverse cast of realistic, modern children and is accessible and engaging for newly independent readers. Timi is a well-developed character, highly observant and introspective, which will be relatable to introverted children who enjoy being alone. The soft black and white illustrations by Sojung Kim-Mcarthy perfectly match the warmth of the story and offer good support to those who may struggle to visualize as they read. Family life is depicted with great skill, and Timi's emotions are conveyed through his expression and body language.
A gentle and thought-provoking short novel that celebrates quiet children and offers a relatable story for those who have experienced the birth of a sibling: great for KS1.
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