Linden The story of a tree and the community that loves him

The poignant story of a tree's life cycle. As a sapling, Linden is planted in an apartment complex's courtyard. Over time, he grows taller. Sometimes, he wishes he were something else--a tall lighthouse or a barn. But others appreciate Linden for what he is. His beautiful blooms attract bees, and the flowers' fragrance wafts into windows. Linden serves other purposes: A resident hangs a clothesline from a branch; a child writes poetry ensconced on a limb. Linden helps the neighbors throughout the year. In summer, they gather under his branches to relax and socialize in the shade; some sway to the music of a resident's fiddle. In fall, kids play among Linden's leaves. Come winter, neighbors decorate Linden with bright lights. One spring, however, Linden falls ill. His flowers don't bloom, and his friends can't cheer him. When Linden's last leaf drops, men with machines remove him. But one day, the residents discover Linden left a marvelous gift behind to prove that he "had loved them too"--a new sapling grows where he once stood. This heartfelt, beautifully told tale will fill readers with both joy and sadness. Children will feel reassured by the growth of the new tree in Linden's place, heartened by the certainty of nature's renewal. The glowing watercolor-and-gouache illustrations are lovely, capturing the warm closeness between Linden and his friends. The neighbors are racially diverse. Captivating and heartfelt. (Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.