The Tallest Tree

Even though eight-year-old Little Catfish has never known anything else, he has heard stories about how his neighborhood used to thrive. A popular restaurant sold food all day long, a bakery's tempting aromas constantly scented the air, the busy Regal Theater hosted musicians and actors, and towering trees shaded the sidewalks up and down the street. But now, the restaurant only opens for lunch, the bakery stands closed and empty with boarded-up windows, the Regal still operates but as a community center, and only one tree remains to offer shade. However, Little Catfish is happy most of the time. He has his mother and grandmother, their cozy apartment, and his best friend, Mr. Odell Davis. Mr. Odell runs the community center, the old Regal Theater. Every day he opens the big double brass doors and then sits outside in his chair, just like he's been doing for years and years. Oftentimes, Little Catfish is next to him, chatting about anything and everything --- especially the legendary Paul Robeson. Little Catfish is intrigued that one man could be so good at so many things, like baseball, football, basketball, singing, acting and even standing strong for civil rights. Robeson is their favorite subject to discuss; he is their hero. But not everyone in the neighborhood has a hero. Fourteen-year-old Lamar and his friends don't seem to believe in anybody or anything. They wander the streets with nothing to do but pick on the younger kids and hang out in the empty lot. Then one night, the anger building up inside of Lamar bursts out and he spray paints graffiti on the Regal community center. Mr. Odell is more sad than angry. He knows something must be done for the people in the dying neighborhood, who need hope and someone to believe in. So he creates a mini-museum in the lobby of the Regal, highlighting amazing individuals who have accomplished great things. He hopes they will influence others in the neighborhood. Word gets out, and more visitors begin showing up to take a peek. People even start helping Mr. Odell expand and strengthen the special exhibit. The community begins to come together and shine. But will the shining hope be enough to lighten Lamar's angry burden? Sandra Belton delivers a special story encompassing symbolism, messages of hope and the importance of communities coming together to make positive changes. Everyone needs something to believe in, and THE TALLEST TREE gently imparts this truth in an enjoyable tale. Belton cleverly weaves information about some accomplished African-Americans and their historical achievements into the pages. Readers will learn some history and obtain a few role models as they are entertained. --- Reviewed by Chris Shanley-Dillman, author of FINDING MY LIGHT and THE BLACK POND