Behold the Trees

Rating:
Summary: A Feast For The Eyes
Review: If one only looks at the pictures on this book, one has "read" it. Of course, the text just highlights the illustrations. Every child - and every adult- should have this book to read and absorb on a regular basis. It stimulates the imagination in every way. Something beautiful to behold.

Rating:
Summary: Little-Known History, Poetic Text, Lovely Illustrations
Review: This short history of trees in the Holy Land melds fact with poetic language and magnificent art. Unfortunately cataloged by the Library of Congress as fiction, this book presents an accurate description of the natural history of the small slice of land called Israel over a 7,000 year period. The language is simple enough for a child to understand, yet contains little-known history, deep truths, and complex concepts.

The sensitive illustrations have a magical quality, managing to show the historical realities of each period within the context of trees. The illustrator's use of color is outstanding, with color fading as the land is denuded, then rebuilding to lush blues and greens as new forests darken the hillsides.

This book would make a wonderful gift for any child, and for any adult interested in either the environment or the Holy Land.