The Legend of the Three Trees

This version of the Three Trees parable-like story of the Gospel is in my opinion the absolute best for small children (and hard headed adults). The flow of the story is simple, but well written. The colorful illustrations draw and keep children's attention. I do like the Tale of Three Trees version as well, however that version seems to be geared more towards more mature children, whereas this version is geared more towards toddlers and younger children. When this version was in print, I loved giving it to expecting or new parents. I really wish they would bring it back into publication.

Love this book - tells children that god has a plan for everyone of us.

This is such a beautiful story. I originally found the larger book and was thrilled to also find a board book for smaller children. I help teach a 2-year-old Sunday School class and I gave each of them a copy of this book for Christmas.

THE LEGEND OF THE THREE TREES is a classic story that all children should read. There's definite takeaway value here! An olive, oak and pine tree were all "planted" by different animals. "As each tree grew, it dreamed of what it would become." The olive tree dreamed of being a ornated treasure chest to "hold the greatest treasure in the world." When it was made into a lowly manger knew it would Never hold a treasure. The oak tree wanted to be made into a mighty ship that would carry a king! Yet it became a little fishing boat. So the oak knew too his dream would Never come true. And finally the pine sitting high on the mountain desired to point people to God. But one night a fierce storm came and lightning splintered its trunk and as it came crashing down, so too its dreams. How could it point people to God now? Never! It was made into a piece of scrap wood. As the saying goes, "Never say never." Believe and Wait... A manger, a fishing boat, and a cross...each held the greatest treasure, the mightiest king and all point people to God. "If we follow God's path, we will travel far beyond even our greatest dreams." Soar!

I have read both versions of this story-"the Legend of Three Trees" and "the Tale of Three Trees". The Legend story is so much better. It ties the whole story together at the end with a page or two about how God's plan for us might not be exactly what we think we want, but can be so much more rewarding if we trust in Him. The Tales book just ends. Nice story, but doesn't follow up with a quick "what does it mean" lesson that is so important for our children. Get the Legend version of this story!

Based on a traditional folk tale, and the screenplay by George Taweel and Rob Loos, The Legend Of The Three Trees is a powerful Christian fable, adapted and written by Catherine McCafferty and powerfully illustrated by Gene 'N Geppy Productions for children -- but with a message meant to touch the hearts of all ages. Three trees have great dreams for their future, but they fulfull the work of God in ways they never expected - the first becomes the manger of Jesus, the second his boat, and the third his holy cross. A deeply moving and wistful picturebook.