Wangari's Trees of Peace - by Jeanette Winter

About the Book

The true story of Wangari Maathai, and environmentalist and political activist in Kenya and winner of the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize, is a shining example of how one woman's passion, vision, and determination inspired great change. Full color.

Book Synopsis

A paperback picture book based on the true story of Wangari Maathai, an environmental and political activist in Kenya and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004.

As a young girl growing up in Kenya, Wangari was surrounded by trees. But years later when she returns home, she is shocked to see whole forests being cut down, and she knows that soon all the trees will be destroyed. So Wangari decides to do something--and starts by planting nine seedlings in her own backyard. And as they grow, so do her plans . . .

This true story of Wangari Maathai, environmentalist and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, is a shining example of how one woman's passion, vision, and determination inspired great change.

Includes an author's note.

Review Quotes

"The tightly focused text moves quickly without sacrificing impact . . . Winter's images appear in framed, same-size squares on each page, creating a flat, frieze-like effect that pays off as Wangari's movement grows and the activities within each frame multiply--a powerful demonstration of Wangari's work."--Publishers Weekly, starred review

"This delightful picture-book biography of the environmentalist has engaging illustrations and accessible, succinct prose. . . . This book would be a superb choice for read-alouds or assignments."--School Library Journal, starred review

"The compact story does offer a way into one of our less-limned Nobel Prize winners, and with adults to fill the gaps in, this could be an appealing introcduction."--The Bulletin

"The ethics and outcome of the tale are not forced on the reader. Rather, it is told very gently--like any good story--and is brightly illustrated."--The Georgia Straight

"Award-winning writer and illustrator Jeanette Winter's clear text and bold paintings (right) make it easy to imagine the story of Maathai and the women of the Green Belt Movement she started."--American Scientist

" . . . beautifully illustrated and simply written for young children."--Sacramento Bee

"Jeanette Winter's singular illustrative style is recognizable by the organic patterns and lively pastel hues . . . Scenes of crouching women planting tiny saplings . . . and, later, images of lush, bird-filled forests . . . celebrate [Maathai's] powerful vision."--Audubon

Smithsonian Magazine, Best Books of the Year 2008
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About the Author

JEANETTE WINTER has written and illustrated many children's books based on true-life stories, including the highly acclaimed MAMA, The Librarian of Basra, and My Name Is Georgia. She lives in New York City.