Book Review: The Tree of Life
Peter Sis, the same author/illustrator who inspired us with the history of Galileo in Starry Messenger has done it again. This time he has made the life of Darwin come alive in the pages of The Tree of Life. Sis continues with his cherished theme of nonconformity for kids (and grown-ups too!).
Darwin’s life, an incredible adventure, is presented in this volume almost as a discovery awaiting your very eyes. The pages are densely packed with Charles’ life story with side story and mini story and oh so many sketches jumbled together probably in much the way the most famous naturalist in history took his observations down in a notebook so long ago. As with Starry Messenger, the illustrations are mysterious and eye gobbling good. This book is also a Caldecott winner.
I have purchased both of Peter Sis’ books for my family. This book is bit more complicated than the simple story of Starry Messenger. It is good to flip through more than once so you don’t miss any of the fun mini stories in italics!
Author: Peter Sis