One day Aani is resting against her favorite tree when she hears the unfamiliar roar of trucks. She alerts the village women, the eldest of whom says the sounds are made by men from the city who have
One day Aani is resting against her favorite tree when she hears the unfamiliar roar of trucks. She alerts the village women, the eldest of whom says the sounds are made by men from the city who have come to cut down the trees. The women explain to the cutters that their trees provide the villagers with food and fuel; are home to animals; and prevent erosion. But the men are heedless. As the cutters move closer, Aani acts with quiet, instinctive heroism to save not only her special tree, but also the village's beloved forest.
Based on a true event in northern India, Aani and the Tree Huggers presents an enduring message of environmental action. In their picture book debuts, author Jeannine Atkins and artist Venantius J. Pinto introduce a memorable heroine whose love of the earth is sure to be an inspiration to children everywhere.
Awards
"Choices"
Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)
Notable Children's Books
Smithsonian Magazine
Notable Children's Books
Smithsonian Magazine
Interest Level
Grades 1 - 4
Reading Level
Grades 2 - 3
Themes
Asian/Asian American Interest, Environment/Nature, Heroism, Responsibility
Accelerated Reader
Level: 3.3
Points: .5
View Description for teachers/educators
Jeannine Atkins is the author of GET SET! SWIM!, which was named a "Choices" selection by the Cooperative Children's Book Center. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and their daughter.
Venantius J. Pinto was born in Bombay, India. A fine artist, designer, and animator, Mr. Pinto lives with his wife in Sunnyside, NY. This is his first picture book.
View Biographical note