Author Lynne Cherry brought the wonders of the rainforest to life during her recent visit to Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary School in Falls Township.
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Cherry’s visit was part of an initiative funded by the Pennsbury Arts Foundation, Roosevelt Elementary School’s PTO, and Title 1.
The event was centered around Cherry’s beloved book, “The Great Kapok Tree.”
The book highlights the plight of the Amazon rainforest through the eyes of a man who, while poised to cut down a kapok tree, falls asleep and is visited by forest creatures each pleading for the tree’s survival.
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In preparation for the author’s visit, the school’s reading specialist, Alisa Myles, and art teacher, Dana Hoffman, led a creative project with their students. They constructed an elaborate tree sculpture from recycled materials, decorated with student artwork, effectively bringing the story’s message into the school hallways.
During her visit, Cherry shared her insights on the creative process and the importance of nature in storytelling. Her discussions went beyond “The Great Kapok Tree” and covered her broader work and its emphasis on ecological themes.
“Cherry shared insights into her writing process, the inspiration behind ‘The Great Kapok Tree’ and her other books, and the significance of environmental stewardship. Her visit not only enriched the students’ understanding of literature but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the natural world around them,” the district said.
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“The Great Kapok Tree” was first published in 1990 and has become a beloved classic.
Cherry, a Philadelphia native, began her journey in children’s literature as an illustrator in 1976 after studying at the Tyler School of Art at Temple University. Over the years, she has developed her skills as a writer. She has written a number of books.
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