The young heroine of this enchanting picture book describes her relationship with a special maple tree, and how she shares it with her new baby sister.
First-time author and artist Lori Nichols immediately sets up the book's central relationship: "Maple loved her name," says the text, as a child in braids looks lovingly at a tree. Her parents "planted a tiny tree in her honor," the book continues. A series of images charts the strengthening bond between Maple and her tree. In one glorious two-page spread, the reader views Maple from high above, gazing down at the girl lying beneath the leafy, sundrenched branches. Then one day, close to Maple's tree, a small mound appears; a rabbit stares at the mound. A tiny sprout appears--a harbinger of not only spring, but a new addition to the family. When the baby won't stop crying, Maple takes her outside, where "Maple's tree danced for them both." Once again, Nichols's image makes readers feel as if they are looking down from the treetop, this time viewing Maple and her baby sister through the leaves.
Maple is a satisfying tale of a child's relationship with and awe of nature, and her willingness to open up her world to her younger sibling. --Jennifer M. Brown, children's editor, Shelf Awareness