Listed in 'It's an Art’ article

Jewish News, 10th September 2020

Children's books – serious and entertaining

Jewish Chronicle, 7th February 2020

As featured on Publishers Weekly

Publishers Weekly

There are numer­ous vari­a­tions on this clas­sic sto­ry. In this one, the lessons are clear enough for young chil­dren to dis­cuss and absorb, and it is accom­pa­nied by expres­sive col­or illus­tra­tions and an appeal­ing lay­out. This is a per­fect book for par­ents or teach­ers to share aloud with chil­dren. Ongo­ing dis­cus­sion of the theme can be tai­lored to age and indi­vid­ual expe­ri­ence and is cer­tain to pro­vide insight­ful exchanges of opin­ion as well as a slice of ancient Jew­ish history.

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Jewish Book Council

Elon’s carefully chosen words convey the message as persuasively as the Halberstadt’s pictures... The delicate lines and subtle earth tones of Halberstadt’s pictures invite caregivers and children to read this book together. When Elon summarizes the enduring strength of the old man’s philosophy, we can only hope it is still true today.

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Imaginary Elevators

I thought that this was a lovely story!

It has a great flow to it and I loved the images - they added a lot to the story and really brought it to life.

The story is the re-telling of a traditional tale is of an old man who plants a fig tree which is not for himself to enjoy as he is very old, but for his children and grandchildren and many generations after him to enjoy too. It is certainly a book that gives you food for thought as an adult too (no puns at all intended!)

It is 4 stars from me for this one, it was a great story that showed the importance of caring for our world, the environment and our future.

NetGalley, Donna Maguire

Love when skilled writers and artists make old stories new. The message resonates through to this generation greatly.

NetGalley, Emily Tucker

'A Roman emperor learns the importance of respecting generations….. Perfect for Earth Day and every day’

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Kirkus Reviews, 24th November 2019

What a delightful and thought provoking read this book is. The tale is of an old man who plants a fig tree which is not for himself to enjoy as he is very old, but for his children and grandchildren and many generations after him to enjoy too.
This book teaches children of the importance of caring for and nurturing the environment around us to ensure it continues and grows for others after us.

A beautiful tale and beautiful art work within the book which brings it to life.

NetGalley, Natalie Horman

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

What a beautiful tale of old! It teaches to take care of our Earth and plants, then it will be here for generations to come. Nice illustrations.

NetGalley, Vonda Svara

Apparently this story of an old man planting a fig tree not for himself, but for future generations is a tale from the Midrash, the Jewish interpretation of the Talmud, the sacred texts of the old testament.

It is a simple story. An old man plants a tree, and the Emperor Hadrian asks what the point is. He will not benefit from it. The old man explains that it is not meant for him alone, but for those who come after him. One does not always do things just for their own benefit, but for future generations.

It is something we should always remember.

I love the expressions on the old man's face, and that of the children. It is such a lively book, and simple in message.

NetGalley, Laura Testa-Reyes

This was a good story about the importance of caring for our world. The story kept my daughter interested, but her favorite part was the illustrations. They were full of life and interesting things to look at. It's a good book, and any child would enjoy.

NetGalley, BreeAnn Kaczmarczyk

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Beautifully illustrated and a wonderful message! The story pulls themes of patients, generosity, and gratefulness without being overbearing. Great read!

NetGalley, Kathleen Salkeld

A simple story about an old man who plants a fig tree and a king. It teaches the importance of caring for the planet and the next generation.

NetGalley, Emily Myhren