A Tree Is Nice

A Tree Is Nice is a 1956 children's picture book that won the Caldecott Medal in 1957. Marc Simont's illustrations alternate between full color and black-and-white spreads, complementing Janice May Udry's simple text. The narrative explores the many purposes and benefits that trees provide in everyday life. Through straightforward observations, the book presents various ways that people, animals, and the environment interact with trees. The book's key message centers on appreciation for nature and environmental awareness. Its enduring influence as a work of children's literature stems from its ability to present conservation themes in an accessible way for young readers.

Readers describe this book as a simple, gentle celebration of trees that connects with young children. Parents and teachers report it works well as a read-aloud for ages 2-6. Liked: - Clear, straightforward text that children can follow - Marc Simont's illustrations show trees in different seasons - Prompts discussions about nature and conservation - Helps children notice and appreciate their environment Disliked: - Some find the text too basic or repetitive - Black and white illustrations alternate with color, which confuses some readers - A few note the book feels dated compared to modern picture books Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (240+ ratings) Sample review: "My 3-year-old loves identifying the different ways we use trees after reading this book. The simple text lets her 'read' along." - Goodreads user "The alternating color and black/white pages seem random and distract from the message." - Amazon reviewer

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein The relationship between a tree and a boy through time presents nature's gifts to humans through spare text and black-and-white illustrations.

We Planted a Tree by Diane Muldrow This book follows the growth of trees in different locations across the world and shows their impact on communities and environments.

Tell Me, Tree: All About Trees for Kids by Gail Gibbons The text introduces tree facts, identification methods, and growth cycles through detailed illustrations and straightforward explanations.

The Great Kapok Tree by Lynne Cherry The story of a man's encounter with rainforest creatures reveals the interconnection between trees and living beings through detailed paintings.

Our Tree Named Steve by Alan Zweibel A family's relationship with their backyard tree demonstrates the role trees play in human memories and daily life through realistic scenes.

🌳 The book won the prestigious Caldecott Medal in 1957 for Marc Simont's distinctive illustrations. 🌳 Author Janice May Udry published only three children's books in her career, with "A Tree Is Nice" being her most celebrated work. 🌳 The book's original publication price in 1956 was just $2.95, equivalent to approximately $30 in today's currency. 🌳 Marc Simont's innovative use of alternating color and black-and-white illustrations was unusual for children's books of the 1950s era. 🌳 The book has remained continuously in print for over 65 years, making it one of the longest-running children's picture books in publication.