A Seed Takes Root
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
A Seed Takes Root, by Michele Oka Doner, is a heartfelt homage to the natural world and to a special banyan tree with which the author forms a decades-long bond. The tree becomes a source of inspiration, refuge, and joy for her from childhood into adulthood. This true story encapsulates the profound connections between humans and trees, offering a poignant environmental message through a non-polemical lens. The book is a blend of art, poetic meditation, memoir, fable, and a tale for all ages, celebrating the unique relationship between an artist and a tree while highlighting broader ecological themes.
Discussion points
What do you think the seed needs to grow and flourish?
How do you feel when you see new plants growing?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new like the seed taking root?
What do you think the story tells us about taking care of our environment?
Why is it important for seeds and plants to take root and grow?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, explore your own garden or a park, and point out the seeds and plants to establish a real-world connection.
Ask your child to draw or describe what they imagine the journey of a seed taking root looks like, encouraging creativity and personal connection to the story.
While discussing the book, incorporate sensory elements like touching soil, leaves, or seeds to make the interaction more engaging and memorable.
Relate the growth of the seed in the story to your child’s own growth, discussing achievements and new learnings to make the theme more personal and relatable.
After reading, revisit the book's themes periodically to reinforce the lessons on growth and development, tying them back to your child’s everyday observations and experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: The story follows a seed's journey into a mature tree, emphasizing the slow yet steady growth process.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of patience and persistent effort in accomplishing long-term goals, whether in learning a new skill or completing a project.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Resilience
Explanation: The seed faces various challenges like harsh weather and limited resources but continues to grow, showcasing resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to stay strong and keep trying even when they face difficulties in school or with friends.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness of Nature
Explanation: The book illustrates how the seed interacts with elements like sun, water, and soil, highlighting the ecosystem's interconnectedness.
Real-World Application: Kids can understand and appreciate the role and impact of each element in nature, promoting environmental consciousness.
Example Lesson: Growth and Development
Explanation: The transformation of a seed into a tree mirrors human growth, making it relatable and educational.
Real-World Application: Children can parallel stages of their own growth with that of the seed, instilling a sense of wonder and knowledge about biological processes.
Example Lesson: Impact of Care and Nurturing
Explanation: The nurturing environment provided by nature facilitates the seed's growth, underlining the importance of care.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the importance of caring for themselves and others, emphasizing empathy and nurturing relationships.