Ellen lives in a small house with a yard all around it. Together with her friend Ollie, Ellen enjoys her playhouse and sandbox and a rock dubbed Ellen’s small mountain. But Ellen and Ollie’s favorite place is the apple tree in the middle of the yard. From the moment readers open this book, they will be intrigued by Kruusval’s detailed watercolor illustrations of life in Ellen’s community, how the apple tree changes with the seasons, and the process of planting a new tree “just like the old tree” (n.p.). The children’s impatience and curiosity will feel familiar to most readers. 2009 USBBY Outstanding International Books List. lmp

Originally published as Ellens Äppelträd in Swedish by Rabén & Sjögren Sweden, in 2006. Translated by Joan Sandin.