Customer Reviews

Up the Learning Tree

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Up The Learning Tree is a picture book story ably written by Marcia Vaughan and set in the American South before the Civil War. In an era when black slaves were not allowed to read or write, one young boy burns with curiosity to know about the power hidden within books. His determination to learn in spite of the threatened punishment pushes him to make a remarkable discovery about himself, and to discover the highest kindness from others. Impressively illustrated by Derek Blanks, Up The Learning Tree is a very thoughtful story for young readers ages 4 to 8 with powerful underlying messages about history and personal drive.

Although this is not written as a Christian book, I ordered it to use in our Vacation Bible School program... as the children's literature parallel to Zachaeus and the sycamore tree. The main character, Henry Bell, knows that learning to read is his key to freedom, and he refuses to be intimidated in his quest. His bravery is only matched by the devoted teacher who breaks the rules to help him succeed.

Henry's first-person narrative offers real insight to the life of a young slave in the United States. The artwork is strong. And the message will leave it's imprint in your heart. Great read!

Young Henry Bell, who works as a slave on the Grismore plantation, desperately wants to learn how to read and write. Not only are slaves forbidden to attend school, they can also face severe punishment if caught trying to get an education. Courageously, Henry finds the opportunity to hide in a tree close to the local school every day, overhear the lessons, and carve the letters he learns about in the branches. Ultimately the teacher notices Henry, and she needs to decide if she will report Henry to the plantation owner, or defy a strict set of rules and help Henry to further his schooling.

This book's dramatic paintings and meaningful story make it an excellent vehicle for teaching younger children about the drudgery of slavery, racial inequality, and institutionalized discrimination in the historic South.

I love this book! It is so encouraging to young students, because it shows them the obstacles that so many people had to overcome in order to learn in the past. In addition to being a great piece of historical fiction, it let's today's children see that nothing should ever stand in their way of learning. This book is perfect as a read aloud story, and one that children 9 and up can read independently.

Up the Learning Tree tells the story of Henry and Ms. Hattie. Henry is determined to learn how to read, despite having a slave master who will chop off his finger if he's caught. Ms. Hattie is a teacher who moves to the south and does not believe "in slavery or in keeping people ignorant". The two work together at great personal risk. I cannot recommend this book enough!

Honestly - I've never read this book. My 7-year-old nephew, all lit up and enthused, told me the story after his 1st grade teacher read it to his class. He had been so impressed by the plot and characters that he was able (and eager) to tell me, in great detail, the entire story. A book having this much impact on a young child is a truly beautiful thing. He learned much about history, the importance of learning, and compassion.