Review of “The 91st Tree from Queensbury” by Mary Jean DeSantis, Anthony Richichi

Score: 93/100 (9.3 out of 10)

The 91st Tree from Queensbury is a delightful children's Christmas book by Mary Jean DeSantis, illustrated by Anthony Richichi!

This heartwarming children's book captures the magic and community pride surrounding the selection of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree from Queensbury, New York. Through the eyes of the fictional Miss Romano's classroom and young Delaney, the story educates readers about the journey of a majestic Norway spruce, from its quiet existence in a small town to its transformation into a symbol of holiday joy in New York City.

The story blends factual details about the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree with imaginative, child-friendly storytelling. The dialogue is simple and engaging, designed to spark curiosity and learning in young readers. The pacing balances educational content with the emotional excitement of the tree's journey.

The book provides historical context and practical insights about how the Rockefeller tree is chosen and transported, making it informative as well as entertaining. The inclusion of classroom discussions, local reactions, and the child’s perspective keeps the story relatable and engaging for young readers. It concludes with a meaningful message about how small contributions can bring joy to millions and make a lasting impact.

The 91st Tree from Queensbury is illustrated by Anthony Richichi, our 2023 Artist of the Year! This book is more or less the standard flair from Richichi. Something rather interesting and unique about this book is how it integrates photographs with the illustrations including photographs taken of the actual tree.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about this book is how it follows the process of choosing the storied annual Christmas tree and the process that the tree goes through. Specifically, the book follows Mr. Erik—the “Santa Claus of Christmas Trees!” Mr. Erik is portrayed as a kind of talent scout, but for Christmas trees! How interesting is that? He finds the right tree. He gets the rights to the tree. He makes sure it is fed, watered, and cared for. He makes sure it grows properly, measuring and tracking its dimensions.

The children in the classroom, specifically Delaney, become fascinated by the concept and story of this tree!

Something that needs to be said is that there's a strange sense of foreboding and even dread that we felt with this book's subject matter, not because it's negative or dark, but because the prospect of this great tree eventually being chopped down and eventually discarded hangs in the air. We kept thinking to ourselves, “Poor tree!”

It's kinda like learning about the process of a piglet being raised to win a farm fair only to be slaughtered and eaten.

Thankfully, we were pleasantly surprised to learn that everything is done to ensure that nothing is wasted from this tree. The pinecones are handed out as keepsakes to spectators, symbolizing the tree’s connection to the community and its enduring legacy. In fact, Mr. Erik gives Delaney a pinecone from the tree directly. Seed packets are also shared, likely encouraging the planting of new trees and promoting sustainability. That really made us feel better!

But what made us feel the most better is when we learned that even the trunk of the tree is recycled for lumber to build houses for those in need! How cool!

Check out this children's Christmas book on Amazon!