The Blue Spruce

By Mario Cuomo

Book Overview

An inspiring story of determination, hard work, and belief in your dreams until you capture them. Former Governor Mario Cuomo shares this endearing life lesson passed down to him from his father. Papa told Mario that having a house with a yard and a tree to call our own was his very special dream. Papa was excited about moving his family to their new home, after leaving behind their grocery store for many years, and sharing his dream with them. Papa and Mario loved the magnificent Blue Spruce that grew in the front yard of their new home, often sharing quiet moments in its cool shadow. Each year the Blue Spruce grew taller and stronger, holding within its branches their secrets and dreams. Then, one evening, unusually strong winds began to blow as dark clouds filled the sky. Mario watched anxiously through the window as the Blue Spruce fought against the winds... The Blue Spruce is a story that children will love and parents will love reading. Wonderfully illustrated by Royal Academy of Arts trained Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen, illustrator of the bestselling The Legend of Sleeping Bear and The Legend of Mackinac Island.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1886947767
• ISBN13: 9781886947764
• Release Date: December 1999
• Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 9.4" x 11.3"
• Age Range: 6 to 9 years
• Grade Range: Grades 1 to 4

Customer Reviews

A heartfelt life lesson

This book brought to my heart a flood of emotions that will not likely be forgotten. It is an absolute "must read" for every parent to their child and for themselves. A truly magnificent peice of literature... Bravo Your Honor!

great present

My son received this book as an early Christmas from his grandparents. We lived in New York for 11 years before moving out of state. Mom bought it to remind us of our old place. Our son was captivated by the beatiful pictures and the beautiful and inspiring story. He is at an age where stories like this affect him personally. After we read it together he asked if we could visit that tree when we go back to visit grandma and grandpa.In a child's simplicity he said,"see mom, if people try hard enough they can do anything" Thankyou Mr. Cuomo it is a beautiful story you share. Thank you Mr.VanFrankehuyzen for the illustrations that brought the message to life.

The Governor's words will always be a learning experience.

The illustrations are just the way I pictured them at the time of the first writing. The Governor's sensitivity and caring ways always show through in his writings. Gov, thanks for continuing to teach us with such thought provoking simplicity. My grandchildren also thank you.

not bad for a politician

I picked this book up for the bold cover. I collect children's books that attract me visually and hope for the best with the text. I was pleasantly surprised with the story. That is why I feel I need to write this review( which I've never done before). The cover caught me first and Mario Cuomo's name peeked my interest. The story read like it came from the heart. The paintings are the best and I have found two more beautiful books by the same artist that I will add to my collection. Very impressive package Mr. Cuomo..especially if you really are donating all proceeds to a charity. Thanks.

super

This is a nice story. Nicer knowing that it is true and when children hear it will be inspired to follow their dreams and never give up. I was visiting New York at the same time Mr. Cuomo was signing his book. Word passed on down the line that he was donating all his proceeds to a charity. Anybody know which one he has generously donated it to? It is a lovely book with beautiful pictures and a beautiful sentiment.