Summer of the Tree Army: A Civilian Conservation Corps Story (Tales of Young Americans)

Charlie is nine years old and lives with his parents in northern Michigan. He spends his summers exploring the dense woods around his home, but in his ninth year, he finds rows of cabins being built in his woods. His parents tell him that because of the depression, President Franklin Roosevelt is putting young men to work all over the country in the Civilian Conservation Corps building roads, bridges, public buildings, and more as well as planting trees, working on parks, and fighting fires. When Charlie is out in the woods, he meets a young man, Luke, working for the CCC who is lost. Charlie leads him back to his camp, then invites him to go fishing and come home for dinner. They become friends and Charlie learns about the important work the CCC does.

Gloria Whelan has written an interesting text that will give youngsters a good introduction to the CCC and all the wonderful work they did. Back matter supports the story. Kirby Fagan has filled the pages with lush illustrations in saturated woodsy colors with lots of excellent details to help youngsters connect to the story and stay engaged. This is a lovely book.