Why you should read Big Tree written by the Ent. This post contains affiliate links, you can find out more on our policies page or in the disclaimer at the bottom of the blog.
Know Before You Read Big Tree
Book: Big Tree
Author and Illustrator: Brian Selznick
Genre: Children’s, Adventure
Length: 528 pages (several pages are only pictures)
Age suggested: 8 and up (Could be read to younger)
Release Date: April 4th, 2023
Warnings: Loss of family, Abandonment, Loneliness, Imminent Danger
Quick Big Tree Summary
Two siblings are forced to go on an unexpected journey. Though sudden and unexpected, they must work together in order to save each other and perhaps…the world. This story comes from an interesting perspective with a few twists that I don’t want to discuss here due to spoilers, but will get into it more in the Big Tree Sections below.
Big Tree Review
(Contains Mild Spoilers)
-Why You Should Read Big Tree-
As we have come to expect from Brian Selznick, Big Tree provides a beautiful symphony of the written word and the powerful illustrations. These have come together to create a simple, yet lovely story of two seeds trying to find a place to take root.
The dynamic between Louise and Merwin is so interesting because Louise is hearing signs of danger and Merwin simply does not. This creates tension on what they should do, which ultimately leads to the conclusion of the story.
As mentioned earlier, the story is a bit simple in style, but still interweaves some intense, large picture story points that push the plot forward, sometimes quite intensely. Overall, Big Tree is a pretty quick read that provides a powerful story with beautiful imagery to bring it all together.
Odder Discussion Questions
-Is Big Tree Appropriate for Young Readers?-
Big Tree is a big looking book (about ~500 pages), but many of these pages are pictures that carry the story forward. So, don’t let the length of the book dissuade you from reading it, even with younger kids.
The main concern I would have with very young readers having this read to them is the loss of family. Throughout the story, characters lose their mom and eventually lose each other. Although this last one does get resolved, it may still be hard for younger readers to process.
The actual plot is quite big in setting, taking place over MANY years with some science thrown in. This does tell a compelling story, but may be too big in scope for some littles. Overall, if these topics and themes can be handled, this is a great read with powerful themes and beautiful illustrations.
Favorite Big Tree Quotes
I dreamed the stars were calling to me. I think they’re trying to tell me something, but they’re very hard to understand.
But if I’ve done my job right, you’ll be brave enough and strong enough to fly through the air as if you had wings.
A good parent always gives their children roots and wings.
Remember, life began as a gift, and it must always be treated as such.
It’s a hard world for little things
Each seed was an act of hope, a belief in the future, and it seemed there were as many seeds in the air as there were stars in the sky.
Big Tree Discussion Questions
Themes to Discuss: Loneliness, Listening to the Earth, Purpose, and Leadership
- How quickly did you realize the timeframe of the story?
- Are you more like Louise or Merwin? Why?
- What did Merwin learn about listening to the earth?
- How was the plant at the end of the story connected to Louise and Merwin?
- Did you have a favorite drawing/picture from the illustrations? If so, which one?
The Door of No Return Review and Discussion Questions
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