The Mother Tree

Margaret Bunel Edwards is a freelance writer and author of several
children’s books.

Coraann talks to an old tree in her back garden whenever she feels
lonely or discouraged. This is where she spent many happy hours with her
mother, who died when Coraann was younger. She refers to the tree as the
mother tree.

With her harp for company and a special wishing-leaf from the tree, she
begins her 13th year as a quiet, uncertain girl. Then, through the use
of her wishing-leaf, enjoyable events start to take place in her life.
She finds a best friend, plays her harp in a concert, and meets a boy in
wheelchair. Finally, she persuades her father to landscape the grounds
of their home without cutting down the mother tree.

This short book is divided into several chapters for easy reading. The
plot is interesting, although the style is reminiscent of storytelling
of some years ago. The omniscient point of view sometimes results in
“telling” rather than “showing.” A first-person viewpoint would
have allowed the reader to empathize more fully with the main character.

Conflicts and happy solutions are equally balanced. Life is not always
so obliging. However, the lessons of friendship, self-worth, and
overcoming personal loss are positively and warmly depicted.

The book is nicely illustrated with black-and-white sketches. The tree
on the cover interestingly suggests an actual person.

Children aged 8 to 12 will enjoy this story and relate to its problems
and solutions.