 Lori Mazzola’s book “Tales of the Tree People” is an excellent example of magical realism, a genre of writing where magical elements or illogical scenarios seem realistic, or even normal. This book is a story about a brother and sister, Mars and Venus, who befriend a willow named Weeping Wendy. With their new friend, the siblings begin a journey to enlightenment.
Both the religious and environmental communities celebrate this book. If you’re both environmentally conscious and religious, this is an excellent book with Christian foundations to teach your children about the importance of our environment and the need for its conservation.
As the story goes, the children discover a God-given gift that helps them to save the earth. This exciting adventure teaches the children morals, and, as the book cover suggests, also teaches them to experience the “beauty, wonder, and complexity of God’s creations.” In any discussion about raising awareness or “getting people to care” about the environment, the key is always to get them to appreciate it first, and this book delivers that point.
“Tales of the Tree People” is an imaginary world where the impossible is made possible. It teaches children that with a little faith, even the most far-fetched of dreams come true. While the story itself stretches reality, the messages and morals of the book are concrete and genuine.
While this book teaches Christian lessons, it also teaches important environmental lessons. Mazzola is a fan of John Muir, one of the most famous and influential American naturalists and conservationists. Mazzola, like many others, consider Muir to be the “Father of our National Parks,” a “Wilderness Prophet,” and “Citizen of the Universe.”
Mazzola’s awe of Muir is apparent in this children’s book. As both Muir and Mazzola’s book teach, one person can do very big and very important things, one step at a time. It gives humble reminders that one person, or one child, for that matter, really can make a difference.
It’s important to empower our children with a sense of being able to do anything they set their minds to, especially when it comes to environmental efforts. When looked at in isolation, so many environmental efforts can seem pointless and hopeless at times. This book is a glittering example of hope in a world that seems oppressive to those of us who wish to change it. Your children will love this book, and you will, too.
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