Andrew's Tree

Sheree Haughian is an elementary-school teacher-librarian with the
Dufferin County Board of Education and the author of The Private Journal
of Day Applepenny, Prisoner.

Four months after the death of his younger brother, Andrew, 12-year-old
Patrick Devereaux continues to be torn apart by guilt, denial, and
anger. Andrew was killed by a passing car only a short while after his
older brother wished that he would “drop dead.” When a family with
three children move next door, Patrick ignores their offers of
friendship. It is only after 5-year-old Neil’s pet rabbit meets
tragedy that Patrick’s healing begins. Andrew’s apple tree, the
previously untouchable reminder of loss that divides the Devereaux
property from the neighbour’s backyard, provides a burial spot for the
deceased pet, refreshments for the mourners, and the message that life
must go on in spite of death.

The untimely loss of a classmate, teacher, or cherished classroom pet
is unfortunately commonplace enough in the course of a school career.
This four-scene, four-character play speaks with particular clarity and
sensitivity to young people who have recently been bereaved.
Recommended.