For me, The Money Tree is a classic book. Sarah Stewart and David Small (illustrator) take us through twelve months in the life of a woman on her homestead. As each month progresses, Miss McGillicuddy notices the beginnings of a special tree which quickly grows into an enormous money tree. I appreciate the values held by this woman as she generously shares the tree’s bounty with neighbors, civic leaders and strangers. All the while, she continues living her simple life of planting, growing and harvesting food.
Miss McGillicuddy cares for three dogs, a cat, some birds, and an assortment of farm animals. With each month’s passage, David Small brings us intimate details of her life and relationships with her land, animals and community. His illustrations reflect the lifestyle so elegantly portrayed in words by Sarah Stewart. I love reading this book — for the story, the possibilities inherent in a money tree, the way our heroine handles the situation, and the delightful watercolor illustrations.
