Our Tree Named Steve

In a perfect world children would never have to experience the pain of loss. But, of course, this is not a perfect world, and just like their adult counterparts, youngsters need help coping when they lose someone they love. Be it that pet hamster who meets with an untimely (and usually slightly suspicious) end, a beloved grandparent who passes away, or the giant tree in the family's backyard that is cut down after providing so many years of comfort to those who hung from its limbs and took shelter under its shade- we all need help getting our children through such rough times. "Our Tree Named Steve" is the perfect book for such times. Written in the form of a tender letter from a father to his three children this book teaches children about the importance of loving, to their fullest capacity, those who impact their lives; and then, when that most precious person is gone physically, embracing that same love, and, most importantly, feeling empowered by that love- perpetuating it so to speak. This book reminds its readers, both young and not-so young, that once someone has taken up residence in our hearts, they exist there eternally. Perhaps, in a different, less tangible form as the end of the book suggests- but they reside there nonetheless. An obvious departure from the more adult-oriented comedy writing for which he is most recognized, Alan Zweibel has written a children's book that is entertaining, thought-provoking, and even a bit spiritual in its universal theme. But despite the heavy subject matter, the book is written with a softness and gentility that is soothing to children. It's also quite funny- the line "... and whenever our dryer broke down, he (Steve, the tree) held our underwear with pride" will undoubtedly make every child giggle because `underwear' is always funny! The illustrations that accompany Mr. Zweibel's thoughtful text are both beautiful and comical, and I simply love the colors David Catrow used. They jump off the page. I highly recommend this book- it is one that should be accessible on the family bookshelf at all times for those days when your child needs some comforting... heck, it'll probably provide some solace to a few grown-ups, too.

With infinite grace and deep understanding, Alan Zweibel imparts this tale of tradition, growing up, and the enduring spirit of family. Steve is more than just a tree- Steve is a vital part of the family, and the deference accorded him is both heartwarming and very realistic. This book meant a lot to me because I had a climbing tree like Steve when I was growing up. My Steve aged over many years of Western New York winters. My parents ultimately had to pay a tree surgeon (I didn't know they existed either) to prolong the tree's life by a few more years. Now all that remains of the tree are memories. For me, this book captures all of what I remember of that climbing tree, and happy memories of growing up. Alan Zweibel has done an amazing job of weaving together timeless themes in a new and touching package. This book is a must read!

The emotional punch that 32 pages of illustrations and text can deliver never ceases to amaze me. "Our Tree Named Steve" is so funny and so touching that upon finishing it for the first time I immediately reopened the book and read it again and then again to savor the humor and the beautiful story. Steve is the name a family gives to a special tree in their yard. Over the years it holds swings and hammocks, turns jump ropes, acts as third base, appears in family photos and shelters their home. The tree watches over the family as the children grow and change. Steve's "last trick" will make you gasp in dismay. There is solace for the family (and us) as Steve's spirit lives on. David Catrow was exactly the right person to design this book. His illustrations are a perfect balance of humor and pathos. I love the dog. Alan Zweibel is a gifted television comedy writer but this is his first children's book. He must be congratulated. He has crafted something quite wondrous and fine.

I bought this book for my little sister and found myself enjoying it as much as she did during her story time. Explaining loss to a child is never easy but the author has found a way to do so using language a child can understand. The book focuses on the memories that we make with the important people and things in our lives and reminds us that they are never really gone. The book also reminds us that every act, whether it is a family barbeque or a simple game can help bind a family together. I recommend that every parent buy this book it helps turn a difficult topic into something uplifting.

I'm not sure who loved this book more - me or the kids! Set around one very special tree, "Our Tree Named Steve" traces the life of family and the changes that they go through. But through all of the changes, one thing remains constant - Steve's presence in their lives. The family quite literally grows up around Steve, the tree that greeted them in the yard as they moved in. This story, told with earnest simplicity, teaches children about the "roots" of family and how to cope with loss. This book is filled with humor, warmth and heart. Children of all ages will love "Steve" - and parents will love reading it to them.