The Big Tree [Paperback]

Bruce Hiscock (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 6 and up | Grade Level: 1 and up

Follows the development of a large old maple tree from its growth from a seed during the American Revolution to its maturity in the late twentieth century.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 1-4-- Mixing fact with fiction in picture book format, Hiscock tells the story of a sugar maple tree from a winged seed sprouting during the American Revolution to the present day when a picnic is held under its towering branches every Fourth of July. Not only are historical events mentioned--George Washington as president, logging, the Civil War--but also biological systems such as photosynthesis and the running of sap are explained. Even the complex process of how trees grow is clearly stated. Because of this simplicity, transitions in time are quick, especially once the story line reaches the 20th century. Yet, for the most part, Hiscock moves smoothly from one event to the next, piquing interest while inspiring further discussion. Realistic ink-and-watercolor drawings show the tree as it grows and the people and activities that surround it over the years. --Martha Topol, Interlochen Public Library, MI
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 6 and up
  
• Paperback: 32 pages
• Publisher: Boyds Mills Press; 1st Edition edition (September 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1563978105
• ISBN-13: 978-1563978104
• Product Dimensions: 10 x 8 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 0.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,346,324 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Time passes as the Big Tree Watches, May 13, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: The Big Tree (Paperback)

This is a wonderful book. It is the story of a maple tree inNew York state; how it began from a seed, grew up in the forestprimeval, survived the pioneer's axe to live in a family's yard, has provided shade and syrup to generations passing on its way to becoming the venerable giant it is now. Part science, part American history, all beautiful. My son has enjoyed this book since he was about 3 (he's reading it himself now at 7) and I'm buying extra copies as gifts.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome story & teaching material, December 6, 2007

By 

J. Nissen - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Big Tree (Paperback)

This is a great book to use in conjunction with a unit on trees. I was absolutely thrilled when I received this book. I purchased it based on the description that it tells the story of a tree and the history that occurs in our country as the tree grows older. I was thrilled when I saw that is also discusses how the tree grows, its rings, and growth needs. I strongly recommend this picture book for any elementary school teacher.

5.0 out of 5 stars History as well as science lesson, March 9, 2009

By 

Mrs. M (CA, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Big Tree (Paperback)

Bruce Hiscock has managed to pack in information on both science and history in an enjoyable way in just a few pages. My 8-year-old daughter loves this book. We did it as a read aloud, and I found that my older kids were also listening in and looking at the pictures with interest.