When I do a combination review of two or more books, I like a theme to accompany them. This time, I really cannot find a common one outside of these stories need to be told. The first, A Family Tree, takes on a more serious nature, with nods to family and traditions, and the second, Ursula Upside Down is lighter and has humor..
A Family Tree by Staci Lola Drouillard and illustrated by Kate Gardiner (currently available though I read via an online reader copy) is an interesting picture book. At first glance it seems like it will be about a tree and the child growing up together, becoming tall and strong through the seasons. It seems like it will be how the tree and child will be friends (as there are several scenes that show the child using the tree for comfort). It would seem as if it is talking about their connection to each other and to the bigger picture around them. It acts as if it will be a nature book that shows man and nature’s connection. However, it is that, but more. The tree becomes a symbol of how things grow and change. It is a symbol of that while one might need to leave their first home, there are always pieces you bring with you. It is about family, growth and changes.
The artwork is dreamy and soft. It captures the somewhat romantic feeling of how this tree is more than a tree. And it captures how the family of the story and their Native traditions help them plant their own roots no matter where they are.
Then we have Ursula Upside Down by Corey R. Tabor (also currently available and read via an online reader copy). It is much more bold and brightly colored than A Family Tree. It is meant to keep you moving and, basically, swimming along with our character Ursula (who has an interesting background that we learn about in the afterwards at the end). This story is more straight forward with how Ursula realizes that her world is “upside down” or then again, is it really? Maybe what is “normal” for you does not fit all people. Or fish. Through her adventures in swimming through her environment, she meets other creatures (from water and air) that show how being yourself is what you are meant to be.
This picture book is for a younger reading or listening crowd. It has quick text that gives you what is needed without being “bogged down.” Sometimes Drouillard’s book was a bit wordy, but that just means you take your time with it. Ursula is more active and lends itself to a quick, fun read when you need a “quickie” to pass the time.