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Solomon’s Tree

by Andrea Spalding, Janet Wilson, illus.

A rich celebration of the power and beauty of nature and family relationships, this picture book is a likely contender for national and international awards. Its contemporary setting comfortably frames a story rooted in native American cultural tradition.

Solomon’s Tree is the collaborative achievement of author Andrea Spalding, illustrator Janet Wilson, and Victor Reece, a Tsimshian master carver whose work is on display in the Canadian Museum of Civilization. Spalding’s inspiration for this gentle story was a mask-carving course she took from Reece. Wilson based the title page mask and the native-inspired art panels on each text page on designs provided by Reece.

In this story about friendship, loss, family support, and cultural tradition, Solomon, a young aboriginal only child, finds friendship in the boughs of a large old maple. The tree shares its seasonal secrets in whispers, rustles, chuckles, and creaky lullabies. When nature’s force unexpectedly fells the tree, leaving Solomon bereft, his uncle offers him a way to remember and honour the tree’s spirit. Together, they create a mask from one of the maple’s logs. During his dance to celebrate the mask’s completion, Solomon unwittingly, but fittingly, helps new tree life take root.

Solomon’s Tree is visually vibrant and generous. Using oils on canvas and wood, Wilson features sun-dappled greens and the orange-red glow of autumn leaves and bonfires.

This book, Spalding’s and Wilson’s third picture-book pairing, is a strong, sensitive, beautifully interpreted title. Teachers will welcome the added valued of a teaching guide available from the publisher.

 

Reviewer: Patty Lawlor

Publisher: Orca Book Publishers

DETAILS

Price: $19.95

Page Count: 32 pp

Format: Cloth

ISBN: 1-55143-217-X

Released: Oct.

Issue Date: 2002-9

Categories: Picture Books

Age Range: ages 4-8