This hopeful story of a resilient tree that grew (and still grows) at the base of the twin towers is a simple introduction for young readers to gain an understanding of September 11th and the impact it had on America. One September day, the perfect blue sky exploded. Dust billowed. Buildings crumbled. And underneath it all, a tree sprouted green leaves in its distress. Pulled from the wreckage, the tree saw many seasons pass as it slowly recovered far away from home. Until one day, forever scarred and forever stronger, it was replanted at the 9/11 Memorial.
This story of the real Survivor Tree uses nature’s cycle of colors to reflect on the hope and healing that come after a tragedy—and assures readers of their own remarkable resilience.
Questions:
+ What did the tree look like in the different seasons? Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter?
+ I wonder what types of people enjoyed the tree?
+ Why do you think the tree managed to survive?
+ After the tree was replanted in its original place, why do you think people stopped and cried instead of rushing by?
+ I wonder if the tree gives people hope?
Activity: Children may use black crayons to draw the tree trunk and branches and then watercolors for the leaves of the various seasons.