Rhythm

A little girl makes a wish by her favorite tree, not for her, but for her father, that he may find a job. This is how the book starts. It chronologically covers a year and half, with each season generally taking two full spreads. During that time, the family endures economic hardship, but still manages to celebrate being together, and some special holidays. Throughout the pages is the constant relationship between an unnamed protagonist and her special tree.

Not much context of unemployment or having Thanksgiving dinner at a community center is provided. This could be because the story is told from the little girl’s perspective, and she may be oblivious to the causes and context of such “adult” affairs. Throughout the book a warmth of family and enjoying the simple things in life is emphasized.

The illustrations are warm and bright. The text sometimes may be more challenging for younger readers. It is possible to narrate the story without referencing the text, by using only the illustrations and asking “what do you think is happening here?” Several themes intertwine in this book, and younger readers may need guidance (and possibly a little background) when reading this book. It is well suited to start a discussion on family, tradition, change, and resilience with younger readers.