Embracing the Power of Trees

"Amrita and the Trees," an environmental folk tale written by Sue Arengo and beautifully illustrated by Birgitta Saflund, is a captivating story that celebrates the vital role trees play in our lives. Set in India, the tale revolves around a young girl named Amrita who cherishes the trees that provide shade, protection from the desert winds, and guidance to water sources.

The Power of a Single Voice:

Amrita's unwavering love for the trees becomes a catalyst for change. Her simple act of hugging a tree daily inspires the entire village to recognize the trees' immense value. This beautifully portrays the power of a single voice to spark a collective movement for environmental protection.

Facing Adversity with Courage:

The story takes a dramatic turn when the Maharajah, blinded by his desire for a new fortress, orders the trees to be cut down. Facing this imminent threat, Amrita demonstrates exceptional courage. Although she cannot physically stop the lumberjacks, her unwavering belief in the importance of the trees inspires others to join her cause.

Unity and Environmental Consciousness:

The villagers, moved by Amrita's actions and the impending loss of their beloved trees, unite in a powerful act of defiance. They stand together, embracing the trees in a symbolic gesture of protection and love. This act of unity serves as a powerful message for environmental consciousness and collective responsibility towards nature.

Visually Captivating and Educationally Rich:

Birgitta Saflund's illustrations are a visual marvel. Their vibrant colors and intricate details bring the story to life, immersing young readers in the vibrant culture of India and the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. The book also includes educational elements such as a glossary with illustrations and examples, further enriching the learning experience.

Strengths:

• Promotes environmental awareness: The story effectively highlights the importance of trees and the detrimental consequences of deforestation.
• Encourages courage and activism: Amrita serves as an inspiring role model for young readers, demonstrating the power of standing up for one's beliefs.
• Culturally enriching: The illustrations and setting provide children with a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of India.
• Beautifully illustrated: Saflund's artwork is visually captivating and enhances the reader's engagement with the story.
• Educationally valuable: The glossary and activities promote vocabulary development and deeper comprehension of the text.

Weaknesses:

• Limited character development: While the focus on the broader message is commendable, some individual characters may lack depth.
• Simplifying environmental issues: The story tackles a complex issue like deforestation in a simplified manner, potentially requiring further discussion or explanation for young readers.

Overall Impression:

"Amrita and the Trees" is a heartwarming and educational tale that celebrates the beauty and importance of our natural world. Through Amrita's courage and the villagers' unity, the story delivers a powerful message about environmental responsibility and the positive impact collective action can have. With its engaging narrative, vibrant illustrations, and educational value, this book is a valuable addition to any library or classroom.

Recommendation:

Highly recommended for children aged 8-10, teachers seeking engaging material for language lessons or environmental awareness projects, and families looking for an inspiring and culturally enriching story to share together. "Amrita and the Trees" is a delightful read that will spark conversations and leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages.

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Sue Arengo, Author 

A Versatile Creator of Words and Art

Sue Arengo is a multi-talented individual whose creative journey has taken her into literature and visual art. Her diverse accomplishments reflect her passion for storytelling and artistic expression.

Sue's academic journey began with a remarkable achievement—a First-Class (Hons) degree in Humanities—a testament to her dedication and intellectual prowess. Her educational foundation would later be a solid basis for her creative endeavours.

For over two decades, Sue Arengo made significant contributions to the world of literature as a freelance author for Oxford University Press. She focused on crafting fiction for children and young adults learning English as a foreign language. During her prolific career, she penned many original stories, such as "Baby Robot" and "Archie's Sweet Shop," which catered to young readers eager to explore the English language.

One of Sue's most notable achievements is her authorship of the award-winning series "Classic Tales." In this series, she masterfully retold traditional fairy tales, making them accessible and engaging for learners of English worldwide. The enduring popularity of "Classic Tales," now in its second edition, attests to Sue's storytelling prowess and ability to captivate and educate young minds.

In addition to her literary talents, Sue Arengo is a self-taught artist known by the pseudonym "Kisa." Her artistic creations are characterized by vibrant colours, imaginative themes, and visionary style, all meticulously rendered in top-grade oil paints. Her exhibitions, including one at the historic John Wesley's Methodist Chapel in Broadmead, Bristol, showcase her unique artistic vision and the impact of her work on the art world.

Among Sue's creative achievements is her enchanting fairy tale, "Lord of the Meadow," a story that unfolds within the idyllic setting of an English summer meadow. Notably, she took on the role of this tale's illustrator, crafting many small, oil-painted illustrations to bring the narrative to life.

Sue Arengo's creative journey is marked by versatility and excellence in literature and visual art. Her ability to transport readers into captivating worlds through her words and evoke emotions through her artistic creations is a testament to her dedication to storytelling and creative expression. Sue's impact on readers, learners of English, and art enthusiasts is a source of inspiration for all who appreciate the power of creativity and imagination.

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