TILLY'S TREE

A girl grows up with the tree her grandfather planted in this debut children’s book.

When Tilly is born, her grandfather digs a hole in the yard and plants a tree for her: “May it teach you that we are one with all that exists in the world.” Through the tree, her grandfather teaches Tilly about caring for the life around her. All things are connected, Tilly’s grandfather explains. Though she may not see how that’s true yet, if Tilly quietly pays attention, one day she’ll understand. As the tree gets taller and flourishes, so does Tilly. She comes to feel deeply connected with the seasonal cycle and the magic of all living things. When her grandfather dies, Tilly is comforted by her mother’s words: “Grandpa is in this tree and every tree.” In college, Tilly studies to become an arborist, deepening her link with nature, and when her daughter is born, the girl’s grandfather continues the tradition, planting a tree for her. Marshall gives her tale a fablelike, timeless quality, though the message is contemporary in this age of disastrous climate change. The story has an important lesson to teach, but it doesn’t feel didactic thanks to simple but eloquent phrasing and concepts children can understand. For example, the tree needs to rest through winter just as Tilly must sleep at night. Still, even winter isn’t barren: “Under the glow of the beautiful moon and sparkling stars, Tilly could see each and every branch dancing in the shadows.” DSM’s illustrations have rich hues, flat planes, and sharp edges, resembling paper cutouts but with shadows to give them depth. No human figures appear; the images center on nature, allowing all readers to see themselves in the story.

A wise and gentle tale that beautifully teaches appreciation for life’s family tree.