For December 2020, PJ Library encourages families to "plant for today and plant for tomorrow." Subscribers will find a special micro-greens growing kit and a unique story, The Carob Tree, in their envelopes this month. Inspired by the Talmudic tale of Honi the circle maker, The Carob Tree encourages readers to think about the significance of one generation’s actions for the future.
The following picture books are also stories of planting and growing gardens for now, and for the future.
Recommended for ages 4 to 5
What are we planting for the future? As Abba rests under a carob tree, Hannah declares that she wants to climb a tree. The carob tree's trunk is too skinny, but can she climb a eucalyptus tree or a pine tree or an olive tree?
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
When the Roman Emperor gallops through the village, no one dares to leave the house, except for a one-hundred-year-old old man planting a fig. Will he enjoy it's fruits? A new adaptation of the Talmudic story about faith in the future and the gifts that every man leaves for generations to come.
Recommended for ages 8 and up
When Emily and her crafting buddies discover an empty lot that used to be a community garden, they want to bring it back to life. They're going to need a little help to make it happen.
Recommended for ages 6 to 7
Honey takes care of her garden every day -- even though she's going to be moving away soon. Laurel, her neighbor next door, knows she's going to miss her. But Honey explains to her that friendship, like her garden, has a way of growing -- despite time and distance.
Recommended for ages 4 to 5
The plant that Netta received on Tu B’Shevat is growing -- and so is Netta. In fact, soon it will be time for the plant -- and Netta -- to do new things. Growing bigger is intimidating, but it’s also wonderful.
Recommended for ages 7 to 8
Pearl loved her street. She loved the people on her street, and she loved the trees on her street -- planted there by her mother years before. So when the city wants to cut them down, it’s time for Pearl to take a stand.
More
Books For Kids Who Love Being Outside
Children's Books About Being a Good Neighbor
What Is L'dor V'dor?
December 4, 2020