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111 Trees: How One Village Celebrates the Birth of Every Girl
In a small village in India, a boy grows up to make a huge difference in his community by planting trees to celebrate the birth of every girl.
Based on a true story, this book celebrates environmental sustainability, community activism and ecofeminism. This is the story of Sundar Paliwal, who is from a small Indian village ruled by ancient customs. As he grows to be a man, Sundar suffers much heartbreak and decides it is time for change to come to his village. Sundar is determined to live in a place where girls are valued as much as boys and where the land is not devastated by irresponsible mining. Sundar's plan? To celebrate the birth of every girl with the planting of 111 trees. Though many villagers resist at first, Sundar slowly gains their support. And today, there are over a quarter of a million trees in his village, providing food, water and opportunities for women to earn a living. His efforts have turned a once barren and deforested landscape into a fertile and prosperous one where girls can thrive.
Based on true events in the life of Sundar Paliwal, and written in collaboration with him, Rina Singh's uplifting story shows how one person can make a difference in a community. Beautiful illustrations by Marianne Ferrer sensitively bring the evolution of the village to life. With strong links to the science curriculum, this book offers lessons on environmental awareness, sustainability and stewardship, as well as the concept of ecofeminism. It also explores ideas of social development, community and culture, and the character education traits of responsibility and cooperation. A thoroughly researched author's note with photographs and more information about the village of Piplantri is included.
Based on a true story, this book celebrates environmental sustainability, community activism and ecofeminism. This is the story of Sundar Paliwal, who is from a small Indian village ruled by ancient customs. As he grows to be a man, Sundar suffers much heartbreak and decides it is time for change to come to his village. Sundar is determined to live in a place where girls are valued as much as boys and where the land is not devastated by irresponsible mining. Sundar's plan? To celebrate the birth of every girl with the planting of 111 trees. Though many villagers resist at first, Sundar slowly gains their support. And today, there are over a quarter of a million trees in his village, providing food, water and opportunities for women to earn a living. His efforts have turned a once barren and deforested landscape into a fertile and prosperous one where girls can thrive.
Based on true events in the life of Sundar Paliwal, and written in collaboration with him, Rina Singh's uplifting story shows how one person can make a difference in a community. Beautiful illustrations by Marianne Ferrer sensitively bring the evolution of the village to life. With strong links to the science curriculum, this book offers lessons on environmental awareness, sustainability and stewardship, as well as the concept of ecofeminism. It also explores ideas of social development, community and culture, and the character education traits of responsibility and cooperation. A thoroughly researched author's note with photographs and more information about the village of Piplantri is included.
36 pages, Hardcover
First published October 6, 2020
3 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Rina Singh
40 books23 followersRINA SINGH was born in India and immigrated to Canada in 1980. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from Concordia University and a teaching degree from McGill University. Before moving from Montreal to Toronto, she taught creative writing to gifted children. She has since written several critically acclaimed books for children. Her book A Forest of Stories has been translated into several languages, her poems and short stories have appeared in several Canadian literary journals, and she has exhibited photography in many Toronto galleries. Rina Singh teaches art and drama in Toronto, where she lives with her restaurateur husband and their two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
December 24, 2022
I appreciate this book more as an adult reading it to myself. But I feel it will be a bit difficult to read it out aloud to a kid. As it is intended to be a children's picture book, I feel like the writing is a bit too mature for the target age group and I genuinely feel like it's not going to work out well as a read aloud.
The book handles some important heavier issues on the Indian patriarchal society, women empowerment, tye celebration of the girl child, local village politics and making a big change for the future generations against all odds.
I feel that this book is better suited for the middle grade age group rather than the kids younger than this age group.
However, I still feel like the writing could have been much better to be more suitable for the young readers.
The artstyle is beautiful and unique; the illustrations and the colours used are subtle and aesthetically pleasing. I appreciate the team and the publishers for bringing out such an important book.
I really loved the actual pictures towards the end of the book. A beautiful journey indeed!
Thank you #NetGalley for the book.
The book handles some important heavier issues on the Indian patriarchal society, women empowerment, tye celebration of the girl child, local village politics and making a big change for the future generations against all odds.
I feel that this book is better suited for the middle grade age group rather than the kids younger than this age group.
However, I still feel like the writing could have been much better to be more suitable for the young readers.
The artstyle is beautiful and unique; the illustrations and the colours used are subtle and aesthetically pleasing. I appreciate the team and the publishers for bringing out such an important book.
I really loved the actual pictures towards the end of the book. A beautiful journey indeed!
Thank you #NetGalley for the book.
August 9, 2020
This is a lovely short book about a village in India where a marble quarry had devastated the land but provided employment. The local customs valued girls less than boys for generations, and families were often hungry and thirsty.
One boy grew up here and when he in turn had a family he treated his daughter the same as his son, but when she died, in her honour he decided to plant many trees. He stood for local election and asked every villager to back him by planting 111 trees to celebrate the birth of girls and sending girls to school.
To me some of the outcomes seem so obvious - plant fruit trees equals fruit - that we wonder why nobody much was doing it. Interestingly the women also planted aloe vera to repel insects, and started to be able to make products to sell. Hydrologists were asked to recommend how to store water for irrigation and drinking. Really, it didn't take that much to get started; it just took someone who thought differently and more in harmony with nature. The lessons are good for young readers and this would be useful in a class discussion: ask what do you think would happen? at various stages. You could also ask why the quarry owners didn't encourage and sponsor their staff to do this in the first place.
At the end of the colourful drawings we get the short factual story and a few words about eco-feminism. This is a great way to introduce young readers to new and bigger concepts.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
One boy grew up here and when he in turn had a family he treated his daughter the same as his son, but when she died, in her honour he decided to plant many trees. He stood for local election and asked every villager to back him by planting 111 trees to celebrate the birth of girls and sending girls to school.
To me some of the outcomes seem so obvious - plant fruit trees equals fruit - that we wonder why nobody much was doing it. Interestingly the women also planted aloe vera to repel insects, and started to be able to make products to sell. Hydrologists were asked to recommend how to store water for irrigation and drinking. Really, it didn't take that much to get started; it just took someone who thought differently and more in harmony with nature. The lessons are good for young readers and this would be useful in a class discussion: ask what do you think would happen? at various stages. You could also ask why the quarry owners didn't encourage and sponsor their staff to do this in the first place.
At the end of the colourful drawings we get the short factual story and a few words about eco-feminism. This is a great way to introduce young readers to new and bigger concepts.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
August 8, 2020
111 Trees by Rina Singh is a unique read about culture.
As an adult, I love this book. Looking from a children's perspective, it might be tough to understand. If you have younger readers who are interested in topics of culture then this might be a good fit. I could even see this being a good book for cultural studies classes to look into. Planting trees for every daughter born is a very unique idea and is a great theme in this book. The pain and loss might be too much for young readers though. This book has some big topics in it.
Despite the potential difficulty, I think it's a marvellous and beautiful story that needs to be told. It's important! I just think buyer beware - know your and your children's reading level before picking the book up.
Overall, it's a great read to open your eyes to an interesting cultural practice.
Three out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kids Can Press for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
As an adult, I love this book. Looking from a children's perspective, it might be tough to understand. If you have younger readers who are interested in topics of culture then this might be a good fit. I could even see this being a good book for cultural studies classes to look into. Planting trees for every daughter born is a very unique idea and is a great theme in this book. The pain and loss might be too much for young readers though. This book has some big topics in it.
Despite the potential difficulty, I think it's a marvellous and beautiful story that needs to be told. It's important! I just think buyer beware - know your and your children's reading level before picking the book up.
Overall, it's a great read to open your eyes to an interesting cultural practice.
Three out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kids Can Press for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
June 20, 2020
111 Trees is a beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the true story of a small village in India. Sundar grew up in the village and as an adult he becomes the village leader. He is saddened by how the local factory is destroying the land and how the villagers prefer having baby boys to baby girls. He proposes that every time a girl is born that the villagers should plant 111 trees. So, they do and it both improves the local environment and improves how girls are though of.
This is a lovely book about how one person can make a positive change had have a great impact.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is a lovely book about how one person can make a positive change had have a great impact.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2020
Wow. This book is a small miracle, and it could change the planet!
After the heartbreaking loss of his mother in childhood, and then his young daughter in adulthood, Sundar had a revelation in his grief. three lines, 111, for three things: "water, daughter, trees", became his mantra of action.
"Every girl born in the village will be welcomed with the planting of 111 trees."
IMAGINE A WORLD WHERE THIS IS EVERYWHERE. Just *what* would this world become, where the feminine is honored, where girls are honored, where forests are created and honored, where Mother Earth herself, that great body that births every one on the planet male and female, imagine She is honored so - What beauty would beget what peace and abundance?
This book is a must read. What a story! The big-hearted may weep reading this short children's book! This book should be in every kindergarten classroom, every daycare, every pediatrician office, every holiday stocking. It is an absolute must read. How can we expand on this glorious action to heal?
I am so honored to read this story, and I am wondering how to be part of this change, and may this incredible way of honoring life spread the world over.
Thank you to NetGalley and to Kids Can Press for an advanced copy for review. Thank you to Rina Singh for beautiful prose and Marianne Ferrer for glorious illustration, colorful and perfect. And most of all, thank you to Sundar Paliwal for becoming that one man who stands up for what is right, who stands up for the feminine and for Nature, who becomes the change himself.
After the heartbreaking loss of his mother in childhood, and then his young daughter in adulthood, Sundar had a revelation in his grief. three lines, 111, for three things: "water, daughter, trees", became his mantra of action.
"Every girl born in the village will be welcomed with the planting of 111 trees."
IMAGINE A WORLD WHERE THIS IS EVERYWHERE. Just *what* would this world become, where the feminine is honored, where girls are honored, where forests are created and honored, where Mother Earth herself, that great body that births every one on the planet male and female, imagine She is honored so - What beauty would beget what peace and abundance?
This book is a must read. What a story! The big-hearted may weep reading this short children's book! This book should be in every kindergarten classroom, every daycare, every pediatrician office, every holiday stocking. It is an absolute must read. How can we expand on this glorious action to heal?
I am so honored to read this story, and I am wondering how to be part of this change, and may this incredible way of honoring life spread the world over.
Thank you to NetGalley and to Kids Can Press for an advanced copy for review. Thank you to Rina Singh for beautiful prose and Marianne Ferrer for glorious illustration, colorful and perfect. And most of all, thank you to Sundar Paliwal for becoming that one man who stands up for what is right, who stands up for the feminine and for Nature, who becomes the change himself.
April 26, 2020
I found 11 Trees to be a strong and inspiring story, based on an actual person and his belief in the value of all people, male and female. The illustrations, especially of the people and the natural world, are lovely and a good support to the narrative. I can see the value in this story being read to children of all ages and races, hopefully offering a bit of hope and encouragement that one person can, and should, do what they can to make the world a better place for all of us.
April 28, 2020
This is such an important book because of the story. I wish there were more Sundars in the world, as he saw how important women are, in addition to the environment. The illustrations are really amazing and fits perfectly to the story as well.
So I would highly recommend this book.
So I would highly recommend this book.
May 29, 2020
This juvenile nonfiction picture book shares the story of a man who became a village leader in India and enacted a plan to restore the environment and improve social perceptions of girls by planting 111 trees every time a girl was born in their village. This book covers his backstory, the situations that led to his advocacy, and the effects of the tree-planting program. However, it moves very quickly, skipping past obvious logistical questions, and doesn't cover the operation in as much detail as I would have preferred.
The best part of this book is the photographically illustrated author's note in the back. It explains the program in significantly more detail, answering some of the questions that the main narrative leaves unaddressed, and it also provides additional information about gender inequality and the concept of eco-feminism. I particularly appreciate that in addition to listing more commonly recognized issues, this section also acknowledges the girls who "didn't have the chance to be born at all" because of sex-selective abortion. The author shies away from the language of abortion and refers to parents choosing "not to go ahead with the pregnancy," but I am impressed that she covered this issue at all.
This book is best suited for middle grade readers and older. Even though it is written in a picture book format, it deals with the heavy topics of gender inequity, the death of a parent, the death of a daughter, child marriage, and, in the afterword, sex-selective abortion. I would not choose to share this book with a very young child, but it is a great resource for older children and adults, presenting an interesting, little-known story about one man's creative method for social and environmental renewal.
I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The best part of this book is the photographically illustrated author's note in the back. It explains the program in significantly more detail, answering some of the questions that the main narrative leaves unaddressed, and it also provides additional information about gender inequality and the concept of eco-feminism. I particularly appreciate that in addition to listing more commonly recognized issues, this section also acknowledges the girls who "didn't have the chance to be born at all" because of sex-selective abortion. The author shies away from the language of abortion and refers to parents choosing "not to go ahead with the pregnancy," but I am impressed that she covered this issue at all.
This book is best suited for middle grade readers and older. Even though it is written in a picture book format, it deals with the heavy topics of gender inequity, the death of a parent, the death of a daughter, child marriage, and, in the afterword, sex-selective abortion. I would not choose to share this book with a very young child, but it is a great resource for older children and adults, presenting an interesting, little-known story about one man's creative method for social and environmental renewal.
I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2020
*Digital ARC provided by Edelweiss+*
A beautiful picture book depicting a beautiful story of how one man changed a village. Sundar Paliwal proposed an unusual plan when he became a village leader in Piplantri, India: every time a girl is born in the village, the village will plant 111 trees in her honor. Wanting to address both the environmental destruction and gender inequality in his village, Sundar advocated for this plan in addition to cultural changes like having families sign contracts to not marry their daughters until age 18. Inspired by his mother and late daughter, Sundar demonstrates the power of a single advocate for eco-feminism, and his village's success proves the worthiness of the changes. The book itself tells all of this in a simple and dignified way, pointedly marking the inequalities while rightfully praising the changes made. The back matter is helpful for older readers looking for more information on Piplantri's changes, though at times it feels repetitive to the story itself. The illustrations are lovely and the photographs included in the back matter ground the story in Sundar's life. Overall, a real-life story that is perfect for a picture book and is well done.
A beautiful picture book depicting a beautiful story of how one man changed a village. Sundar Paliwal proposed an unusual plan when he became a village leader in Piplantri, India: every time a girl is born in the village, the village will plant 111 trees in her honor. Wanting to address both the environmental destruction and gender inequality in his village, Sundar advocated for this plan in addition to cultural changes like having families sign contracts to not marry their daughters until age 18. Inspired by his mother and late daughter, Sundar demonstrates the power of a single advocate for eco-feminism, and his village's success proves the worthiness of the changes. The book itself tells all of this in a simple and dignified way, pointedly marking the inequalities while rightfully praising the changes made. The back matter is helpful for older readers looking for more information on Piplantri's changes, though at times it feels repetitive to the story itself. The illustrations are lovely and the photographs included in the back matter ground the story in Sundar's life. Overall, a real-life story that is perfect for a picture book and is well done.
May 28, 2020
This is a beautiful nonfiction picture book with some heavy messages about gender inequality and environmental stewardship. I would reccomend it for mature students in junior/intermediate grades.
This book would be a fantastic read aloud for older students (junior/intermediate) and fits with the Science curriculum (sustainability and stewardship, conservation of energy and resources, rocks and minerals) and Socual Studies curriculum.
The preface and jacket are a great introduction to the book. Before reading this I would use them as an introduction to activate prior knowledge (i.e., how a birth is celebrated in their family), and generate questions about what students were wondering and wanting to learn from the text.
The information following the story is great, some is definatily suited more to mature readers.
I was provide with a e-ARC from Net Galley for an honest review.
This book would be a fantastic read aloud for older students (junior/intermediate) and fits with the Science curriculum (sustainability and stewardship, conservation of energy and resources, rocks and minerals) and Socual Studies curriculum.
The preface and jacket are a great introduction to the book. Before reading this I would use them as an introduction to activate prior knowledge (i.e., how a birth is celebrated in their family), and generate questions about what students were wondering and wanting to learn from the text.
The information following the story is great, some is definatily suited more to mature readers.
I was provide with a e-ARC from Net Galley for an honest review.
July 20, 2020
From the experience of the author and the love he has for the females in his life, he wanted to change the culture of his Indian village. His village would celebrate the birth of a son but would dishonor a daughter. His own mother died tragically of a snake bite and the love that he lost with his mother, he valued. As a leader of his village, he proposed that they would plant 111 trees on the birth of any daughter.
This is his story of how the culture resisted change and how with persistence change came along with a better life for all. When all is valued, great things happen.
This is an informative read on social justice with real change. I would suggest reading it on your own before sharing it with your children. This will prepare you to answer and give insight to the ways of culture. This is not a book of judgment but of a better way. Highly recommend
A special thank you to Kid's Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review
This is his story of how the culture resisted change and how with persistence change came along with a better life for all. When all is valued, great things happen.
This is an informative read on social justice with real change. I would suggest reading it on your own before sharing it with your children. This will prepare you to answer and give insight to the ways of culture. This is not a book of judgment but of a better way. Highly recommend
A special thank you to Kid's Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review
April 27, 2020
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Sundar Paliwal is one incredibly resilient individual. He endured great loss and hardship, and rather than allowing it to destroy his spirit, he found inspiration for changing the culture and environment of his village. His story is truly one worth knowing and this book accomplishes that beautifully.
Like the other titles in the Citizen Kid series of books, this reveals the greatness of an unrecognized role model that is making a positive change in the world by taking local measures that will improve the lives of others. Paliwal seems like such kind, selfless person, and his actions seem so inarguably beneficial that I'm left to wonder how his story isn't more well known.
I will definitely be adding this book to my school's collection when it goes into print this fall. Truly inspiring and appreciated.
Sundar Paliwal is one incredibly resilient individual. He endured great loss and hardship, and rather than allowing it to destroy his spirit, he found inspiration for changing the culture and environment of his village. His story is truly one worth knowing and this book accomplishes that beautifully.
Like the other titles in the Citizen Kid series of books, this reveals the greatness of an unrecognized role model that is making a positive change in the world by taking local measures that will improve the lives of others. Paliwal seems like such kind, selfless person, and his actions seem so inarguably beneficial that I'm left to wonder how his story isn't more well known.
I will definitely be adding this book to my school's collection when it goes into print this fall. Truly inspiring and appreciated.
May 28, 2020
This is an inspiring story about how an individual's actions can bring about great, positive change. The loss of Shyam Sundar Paliwal's mother when he was a young boy and then later, his daughter when he is a father, inspires him to take action against the significant hardship caused by a local marble plant. Paliwal takes action by stating that..
"Every girl born in the village will be welcomed with the planting of 111 trees."
As trees are planted, food becomes more abundant, and engineers help bring back water to the village for the trees and the people.
The illustrations add a beautiful rich layer to the story, which will appeal to readers. This is a wonderful inspirational true story of eco-feminism, that is a great addition to classrooms grades 4-6.
"Every girl born in the village will be welcomed with the planting of 111 trees."
As trees are planted, food becomes more abundant, and engineers help bring back water to the village for the trees and the people.
The illustrations add a beautiful rich layer to the story, which will appeal to readers. This is a wonderful inspirational true story of eco-feminism, that is a great addition to classrooms grades 4-6.
May 25, 2020
I requested and received an e-ARC of this book from NetGalley and Kids Can Press in exchange for my honest opinion.
I loved this book! Sundar Paliwal worked at a marble mining company near his village and saw the devastation this process caused on the surrounding land. He lost his mother at a young age and after losing his daughter he decided that he could make a difference for the women of the village and the land.
I love that Sundar chose to convince (it was hard work) honour the birth of every girl with the planting of 111 trees. Not only did this make the villagers celebrate the birth of a daughter but it brought back vegetation to the land.
This book was great and shows us that one person can make a difference.
I loved this book! Sundar Paliwal worked at a marble mining company near his village and saw the devastation this process caused on the surrounding land. He lost his mother at a young age and after losing his daughter he decided that he could make a difference for the women of the village and the land.
I love that Sundar chose to convince (it was hard work) honour the birth of every girl with the planting of 111 trees. Not only did this make the villagers celebrate the birth of a daughter but it brought back vegetation to the land.
This book was great and shows us that one person can make a difference.
May 9, 2020
Thanks to Goodreads for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book! This one will definitely be on my must-buy list when it comes out.
Five stars for this wonderful TRUE story of how one man brought great change to his village in India by changing cultural norms and starting a new tradition of planting 111 trees for each girl born in the village. I learned the term "eco-feminism" through this marvelous nonfiction rendering. Gorgeous illustrations complement this rich story.
Five stars for this wonderful TRUE story of how one man brought great change to his village in India by changing cultural norms and starting a new tradition of planting 111 trees for each girl born in the village. I learned the term "eco-feminism" through this marvelous nonfiction rendering. Gorgeous illustrations complement this rich story.
May 10, 2020
Thank you Net Galley for sending ARC for an honest review.
Such an inspiring story .Being from the same part of the world I can see the importance of this book. This book is about feminist but not a feminine.A man with vision who could identify the injustice between genders andd how it was effecting women. This book is about a environmentalist who wanted to do something for his mother earth. This book tells you that just one person can bring revolution.Just stick to your vision.
Such an inspiring story .Being from the same part of the world I can see the importance of this book. This book is about feminist but not a feminine.A man with vision who could identify the injustice between genders andd how it was effecting women. This book is about a environmentalist who wanted to do something for his mother earth. This book tells you that just one person can bring revolution.Just stick to your vision.
May 11, 2020
This book was provided as an e-arc by NetGally. Thanks for them and the publisher.
Nowadays,I am in the mood for different reads from what I normally read so when I stumped upon this in Netgally ,I decided to read it.
I loved the message of this little book and I am very happy to find that it's a realistic story. I liked the art as well. It was simple and beautiful. I loved seeing the real pictures in the end. That alone made me smile.
I really recommend this.
Nowadays,I am in the mood for different reads from what I normally read so when I stumped upon this in Netgally ,I decided to read it.
I loved the message of this little book and I am very happy to find that it's a realistic story. I liked the art as well. It was simple and beautiful. I loved seeing the real pictures in the end. That alone made me smile.
I really recommend this.
December 17, 2020
Inspiring, humane, and thought-provoking book about how traditions and ways of thinking can change for the better. A small Indian village whose natural resources had been ravaged and which subscribed to the old traditions which devalued girls, learns to vastly improve both situations by planting 111 trees to celebrate the birth of each new baby girl and to invest her education and future.
May 8, 2020
Beautiful illustrations and story. It makes you consider how we can change the world with our 'small' actions and ideas. I am excited to be able to share this story in the classroom not only because of the beautiful story but the additional information they give about Sundar and his eco-feminism.
May 11, 2020
A wonderful story, beautifully written! A must have for libraries. Our students will love this and it will also support the work they do with the Sustainable Development Goals.
May 29, 2020
A true story about the magical transformation of an ancient village in India through echo-feminism. It was an interesting story. I enjoyed the vibrant illustrations and the concept of echo-feminism.
May 28, 2020
I loved this story and think children will love that this is a true story. I think stories like this are so important in the climate we live in and can’t wait to share it with my class.
February 17, 2022
This is a moving story about a man in India who wanted to help his community and the Earth. He devised a way to do them, both together! The book discusses eco-feminism and sustainability.
December 5, 2020
Inspiring Story of the Power of One Person to Affect Change
I love picture books like this one that is actually based on a true story and share powerful, important messages that are clear and relatable. We often feel frustrated by what we, as just one person, can do against the bigger issues, like environmental and gender inequality issues. This book shows that one person can make a difference by doing what appears to be small things. The book shares the story of an Indian man who grew up in a desert village where people struggled to survive, where the local marble company devastated the land, and where the hundred-year-old tradition of celebrating a boys’ births, but not girls, were ideas that bothered him. The book gives a little of his backstory as a little boy, including the death of his mother—one of the first of some hard issues addressed in this book. After the boy grows into a man, marries, and has children, the death of his oldest daughter (because of dehydration, as we learn in the afterword) lights a spark in him. He has always loved the few trees around his village (as they remind him of walks to get water with his mother), so he decides to plant trees in her honor. Then he gets the idea to plant trees in the honor of *all* girls when they are born. He becomes a village leader and gets pushback when he suggests that 111 trees should be planted at the birth of every girl. But he is able to make it happen. He also suggests other gender-based reform, like asking parents to agree to educate their daughters as they do their sons and to not marrying their daughters off until they are 18.
But what is amazing, in the context of this book, is the trees. The 111 trees are planted for each girl, and as the girls grow, they and their family take care of the trees and have rituals around them, like tying ribbons on them each year to show their connection to the trees. To keep termites away, they plant aloe near the trees. As they added more and more trees around the village, animals came back, and it became a thriving habitat. The trees planted appear to be fruit-bearing ones (and we do see some mango fruits), as it is mentioned the trees help to decrease hunger in the village. The illustrations in this part of the book are well done and are certainly styled in part like traditional Indian illustrations.
I love the afterword of the book, as the actual story is given in more detail with pictures. So we see the trees with the colorful ribbons around them with the aloe at the base. The aloe has now become a money-making source for the women in the village as they turn it into health products. What a great thing for the community. What started as such a small idea has become very helpful to the villagers in several ways. Hats off to Sundar for getting all of this going and truly making a change that has a wide-ranging impact. It is nice to know that one person can, indeed, make a difference.
I love this book because it teaches lessons about so many things but doesn't come across as preachy. I would think it would be best to tell the child before you start to read the book that this is actually based on a true story; it's real. Even though this is a picture book, it isn't really meant for younger children. Perhaps it would be best for the 7- to 9-year-olds, and certainly the older ones could read it on their own. There are certainly some things that could be hard for a child to handle—like the death of a mother and the death of a daughter—so I think there might need to be some parental support even if the child can read it on his or her own. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I love picture books like this one that is actually based on a true story and share powerful, important messages that are clear and relatable. We often feel frustrated by what we, as just one person, can do against the bigger issues, like environmental and gender inequality issues. This book shows that one person can make a difference by doing what appears to be small things. The book shares the story of an Indian man who grew up in a desert village where people struggled to survive, where the local marble company devastated the land, and where the hundred-year-old tradition of celebrating a boys’ births, but not girls, were ideas that bothered him. The book gives a little of his backstory as a little boy, including the death of his mother—one of the first of some hard issues addressed in this book. After the boy grows into a man, marries, and has children, the death of his oldest daughter (because of dehydration, as we learn in the afterword) lights a spark in him. He has always loved the few trees around his village (as they remind him of walks to get water with his mother), so he decides to plant trees in her honor. Then he gets the idea to plant trees in the honor of *all* girls when they are born. He becomes a village leader and gets pushback when he suggests that 111 trees should be planted at the birth of every girl. But he is able to make it happen. He also suggests other gender-based reform, like asking parents to agree to educate their daughters as they do their sons and to not marrying their daughters off until they are 18.
But what is amazing, in the context of this book, is the trees. The 111 trees are planted for each girl, and as the girls grow, they and their family take care of the trees and have rituals around them, like tying ribbons on them each year to show their connection to the trees. To keep termites away, they plant aloe near the trees. As they added more and more trees around the village, animals came back, and it became a thriving habitat. The trees planted appear to be fruit-bearing ones (and we do see some mango fruits), as it is mentioned the trees help to decrease hunger in the village. The illustrations in this part of the book are well done and are certainly styled in part like traditional Indian illustrations.
I love the afterword of the book, as the actual story is given in more detail with pictures. So we see the trees with the colorful ribbons around them with the aloe at the base. The aloe has now become a money-making source for the women in the village as they turn it into health products. What a great thing for the community. What started as such a small idea has become very helpful to the villagers in several ways. Hats off to Sundar for getting all of this going and truly making a change that has a wide-ranging impact. It is nice to know that one person can, indeed, make a difference.
I love this book because it teaches lessons about so many things but doesn't come across as preachy. I would think it would be best to tell the child before you start to read the book that this is actually based on a true story; it's real. Even though this is a picture book, it isn't really meant for younger children. Perhaps it would be best for the 7- to 9-year-olds, and certainly the older ones could read it on their own. There are certainly some things that could be hard for a child to handle—like the death of a mother and the death of a daughter—so I think there might need to be some parental support even if the child can read it on his or her own. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
August 1, 2020
I received an e-galley of this book thanks to Annick Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I started the book without much information - I became interested in it just for its title - “111 Trees” - as I do have an interest in eco initiatives but until I started reading this incredible story, I had no idea that I would be reading about the amazing story of Sundar Paliwal.
Set in a village in India, Sundar sees the ways in which girls and boys are not treated equally in this country. He sees the ways in which the mining industry has destroyed his beautiful country and when tragedy strikes, he is determined to do something about these injustices he sees. He proposes to his village that at the birth of every girl, the village would plant 111 trees to heal the land and honour the girls. This idea is not well-met but through his determination and persistence, he is able to convince the village.
This is a story of how one individual can help change the world for the better. In understanding how we can treat the world a better place, it actually provides better opportunities for the people who live within these communities. Having access to water has shown to lead to girls education in parts of the world where it has not been the case. By the end of this story, readers will learn what it means to be an eco-feminist and be inspired to be a part of the cause.
I started the book without much information - I became interested in it just for its title - “111 Trees” - as I do have an interest in eco initiatives but until I started reading this incredible story, I had no idea that I would be reading about the amazing story of Sundar Paliwal.
Set in a village in India, Sundar sees the ways in which girls and boys are not treated equally in this country. He sees the ways in which the mining industry has destroyed his beautiful country and when tragedy strikes, he is determined to do something about these injustices he sees. He proposes to his village that at the birth of every girl, the village would plant 111 trees to heal the land and honour the girls. This idea is not well-met but through his determination and persistence, he is able to convince the village.
This is a story of how one individual can help change the world for the better. In understanding how we can treat the world a better place, it actually provides better opportunities for the people who live within these communities. Having access to water has shown to lead to girls education in parts of the world where it has not been the case. By the end of this story, readers will learn what it means to be an eco-feminist and be inspired to be a part of the cause.
March 7, 2021
Wow, I really loved learning about the real events that this story was based on through reading this book! I also appreciated all the facts and true event info given at the end after a more typical picture book style telling of the story. This is the story of how a man who became a village leader in India, was able to begin making a big change in the way girl births were viewed through making a step by step change with each birth: with every girl born, 111 trees would be planted. Not only did this begin to celebrate girl births that had never been particularly joyous occasions before, but it also helped the environment. The planting of trees and changing of the habitat because of it further allowed for more job opportunities for women in the village and allowed for more methods of getting enough water and food to the villagers. This is a great look into Ecofeminism and a very inspiring story! The artwork was also very bright and unique.
April 17, 2021
Shyam Sundar Paliwal shows how one person can change the way an entire community can prosper and rethink the way girls are treated.
I didn't expect to be as moved as I was by this book. From the title, I assumed it would be a simple story about a lovely tradition. Instead, I learned about how one community's long-held customs undervalued girls, how the mining of marble was destroying the environment, how the planting and caring for trees can improve a community's way of life.
The story is a bit long so it's better for second grade and up. I'd absolutely use it with middle school to talk about gender inequality, environmental issues, and the difference one person can make. Really, really good.
I didn't expect to be as moved as I was by this book. From the title, I assumed it would be a simple story about a lovely tradition. Instead, I learned about how one community's long-held customs undervalued girls, how the mining of marble was destroying the environment, how the planting and caring for trees can improve a community's way of life.
The story is a bit long so it's better for second grade and up. I'd absolutely use it with middle school to talk about gender inequality, environmental issues, and the difference one person can make. Really, really good.
August 10, 2020
A beautifully illustrated book that takes the message about living sustainably and in harmony with nature. The author in this book, highlights the story about how Shyam Sundar Paliwal , a village leader from Piplantri, Rajasthan turns his arid village into a haven of trees. I like how the book features issues that still plague our nation, to it's young readers without being preachy or textbook like. Pipliantri's story is a harbinger of the possibility to make a change which benefits both the community and the environment. Young green warriors will certainly like reading this book.
Thank you Netgalley for the book.
Thank you Netgalley for the book.
February 25, 2021
Excellent! I'm always pleased when I see important real world stories like this designed for younger audiences. The info section at the back is wonderful! I love the questions asking people if they're eco-feminists; it broken down into perfect bite sized, common sense chunks!
And to top it off, the illustrations are also beautiful!
And to top it off, the illustrations are also beautiful!
Want to read
June 10, 2020Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
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