The Jelly Bean Tree

May 8, 2017
Yuly (Cat Nap) introduces a patient blue giraffe named Jelly Bean, who finds herself caring for a family of birds. Jelly Bean loves standing among the trees, and she “especially loves to nap with them.” As Jelly Bean rests, readers see a bird building a nest between her ears; once awake, the giraffe stands motionless, protecting the bird and her eggs. “I am a tree,” she tells her visiting animal friends. “See my nest?” The story’s premise and artwork, a mix of torn-paper and digital collage, share a sweetness and simplicity: weathered paper edges give Yuly’s animals a plushlike texture, and her careful use of other elements (such as twine for the nest) adds visual appeal. Driven by endearing scenes of generosity—Jelly Bean’s friends take care of their friend while she’s occupied, and even after the chicks hatch they aren’t quite ready to leave their unconventional home—this story imparts a gentle message about being a good friend and looking out for one another. Up to age 4. Agent: Lori Kilkelly, Rodeen Literary Management.

June 1, 2017

Toddler-PreS-This gentle story centers on Jelly Bean, a blue giraffe who is very fond of trees. She loves sleeping with her head resting on the branches of a tree. After one long nap, Jelly Bean awakens to find that a mama bird has built a nest on top of her head! Jelly Bean quickly decides that she must become a tree, standing tall and waiting patiently for the eggs to hatch. Luckily for Jelly Bean, her colorful friends-Elephant, Dog, and Turtle-bring her snacks to eat and flowers to make her smile. Jelly Bean is such a perfect tree that when the eggs finally hatch, all the birds want to stay nestled on the giraffe's head, napping contentedly together. The soothing language and colorful torn tissue paper art will be as appealing to young children as the trees are to Jelly Bean. Especially engaging are the opening spreads, which introduce listeners to Jelly's tail and long legs and, of course, her very long neck and black jelly bean-shaped spots. VERDICT A great choice for preschoolers, particularly right before nap or quiet time.-Sally James, South Hillsborough Elementary School, Hillsborough, CA

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