Subject

Trees -- Juvenile fiction Books

Best books

Edith Rickert

The Bojabi Tree

"The Bojabi Tree" by Edith Rickert is a children's storybook written in the early 20th century. This delightful tale revolves around a group of animals who are struggling with hunger and embark on a quest to discover the name of a mysterious fruit-bearing tree, which can save them from starving. The narrative combines elements of adventure and education, illustrating themes of cooperation and resourcefulness among the animals. The story follows various woodland creatures, including Robin Rat, Pinky Pig, Giddy Goat, and Tommy Tortoise, as they each attempt to find out the name of the "Bojabi" tree from King Leo, the ruler of the animal kingdom. Each character faces comedic mishaps and challenges that prevent them from successfully remembering the name until Tommy Tortoise, who cleverly creates a song to retain the knowledge, finally reveals it to the group. In the end, this newfound knowledge leads to the satisfaction and happiness of all the animals, establishing Tommy Tortoise as their king, celebrated for his wisdom and ingenuity.

Amy Ella Blanchard

Playmate Polly

"Playmate Polly" by Amy Ella Blanchard is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Jessie who navigates her daily adventures, including her interactions with her new friend Polly Willow and her companionable playmate, a crow she names Ebon. Through these relationships, the narrative explores themes of friendship, childhood imagination, and the significance of loyalty and trust. At the start of the story, Jessie is introduced as a thoughtful and imaginative girl who enjoys her walks to school and her interactions with the neighborhood's flagman, Ezra. However, her routine is disrupted when she learns that Ezra is ill, and she encounters a gruff stranger who warns her about crossing the tracks. She grapples with fears for her safety and the potential loss of independence in going to school. Soon, Jessie finds solace and companionship in her "Playmate Polly," a tree by the brook, leading her to create an imaginative world filled with dolls and adventures. The opening portion sets the tone for Jessie's explorations of friendship and self-discovery as she also learns to navigate the complexities of relationships with her new neighbor, Adele.

Miss Moncrieff

The Old Oak Tree

"The Old Oak Tree" by Miss Moncrieff is a charming children's tale written in the late 19th century. This story is designed for a young audience, featuring delightful woodland characters and addressing themes of community, the consequences of envy, and the importance of harmonious living. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque park, it unfolds the adventures and interactions of the animals living in and around an ancient oak tree. The narrative follows Bunny the Rabbit, Jerry the Squirrel, Cozie Cowl the Owl, and a variety of birds who coexist peacefully until the disruptive arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Jay. These newcomers introduce discord, prompting questions about each character's living conditions and instilling doubt in the once contented community. As tensions rise and the harmony of the Old Oak is threatened, the Squire ultimately decides to remove the noisy Jays, thereby restoring peace. The story closes with a celebration among the remaining animals as they reflect on their bond and the lessons learned about acceptance and the perils of gossip and envy.

Howard Roger Garis

Uncle Wiggily in the Woods

"Uncle Wiggily in the Woods" by Howard Roger Garis is a collection of children's stories written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the adventures of Uncle Wiggily Longears, a kind and gentle rabbit gentleman, as he explores the woods with his muskrat housekeeper, Nurse Jane Fuzzy Wuzzy. Each story presents Uncle Wiggily facing various challenges and encounters, often involving other animal characters, emphasizing themes of friendship, problem-solving, and kindness. At the start of the book, Uncle Wiggily makes plans to spend the summer in a hollow stump bungalow in the woods, where he anticipates new adventures. He quickly encounters the skillery-scalery alligators who plot to catch him, but demonstrating resourcefulness, Uncle Wiggily cleverly crafts a whistle from a willow branch to call for help, ultimately securing his escape from their grasp. This opening sets the tone for a delightful series of whimsical stories filled with playful challenges and inventive solutions, appealing to young readers and those young at heart.

Albert Bigelow Paine

The Hollow Tree Snowed-In Book
 Being a continuation of stories about the Hollow Tree and Deep Woods people

"The Hollow Tree Snowed-In Book" by Albert Bigelow Paine is a children's book published in 1910. The story follows the 'Coon, the 'Possum, and the Old Black Crow, who live together in the Hollow Tree in the Deep Woods. When a big snowstorm traps them inside, they pass the time by telling each other stories. A storyteller recounts these tales to the Little Lady as they sit by the fireplace, sharing the adventures of the Hollow Tree Folk.

Albert Bigelow Paine

The Hollow Tree Snowed-in Book
 being a continuation of the stories about the Hollow Tree and Deep Woods people

"The Hollow Tree Snowed-in Book" by Albert Bigelow Paine is a children's book published in 1910. When a fierce snowstorm traps the 'Coon, the 'Possum, and the Old Black Crow inside their Hollow Tree home in the Deep Woods, the friends pass the time by sharing stories. A storyteller recounts these tales to the Little Lady by the fireplace, bringing to life the adventures and mishaps of these beloved animal characters during their long winter confinement.

Albert Bigelow Paine

Hollow Tree Nights and Days

"Hollow Tree Nights and Days" by Albert Bigelow Paine is a collection of children's stories written in the early 20th century. This work serves as a continuation of the tales about the whimsical creatures living in the Hollow Tree and Deep Woods, featuring familiar characters like Mr. Rabbit, Mr. 'Possum, and Mr. Crow. The stories explore themes of friendship, adventure, and the playful imagination of childhood through the lens of the anthropomorphic animals. At the start of the narrative, readers are reintroduced to the Hollow Tree people who gather around the Story Teller, reminiscing about their past adventures. The narrative sets the scene for a cozy storytelling atmosphere while hinting at various tales to come, including Jack Rabbit's school days and Mr. 'Possum's latest antics. The characters engage in discussions about their past experiences and contemplate their relationships with Mr. Man, establishing a whimsical backdrop that invites readers into their enchanting world of shared stories and camaraderie.

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