“O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree! Your greenest branches Live for me.”
Beautiful new words to an old Christmas Carol. These were made by a small boy with a lame leg. While we are never told of the boy’s name or his parents, we are drawn to the love of a father for his young son and the small tree that has come to mean so much to them. Each year bringing the tree in from the cold, to decorate for Christmas to the delight of his son and friends. Afterwards returning it to the field, to continue its growth. I loved the ending, such spirit of giving and love. The gentle rhythmic words, by author Margaret Wise Brown across full-page soft acrylic-and pencil scenes, courtesy of Jim Lamarche, make this a beautiful read aloud picture book. I can just imagine curling up in front of a warm fire and reading this to my niece if she only lived nearer.
Writer and Dreamer at work 
Again, another excellent choice. I didn’t know the history behind this story and the song. I’m not sure I ever read the book, but will certainly consider checking it out for our granddaughter.
It was first published in 1954 with illustrations by Barbara Cooney. Margaret Wise Brown, you may remember, is also the author of Pussywillow and the very popular Goodnight Moon. I am sure your granddaughter will love it Patricia.
Ah I know this carol best in its original german version, O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum… It is a very common traditional song at Christmas time in Germany. I love the end of the story and the returning of the Fir Tree back to the earth to continue to give life.
Ha… yes I have that song in german on a cd somewhere. The book is lovely, pleased you also enjoyed it. Thankyou Joanna.