The Man Who Planted Trees
Synopsis
This short work of creative activism follows a nameless narrator, who returns from the battlefield to the French Alps, shell-shocked and alone. On his aimless journey through the natural world, he stumbles across an old Shepard and widower named Elzéard, who spends his days reforesting the desolate landscape. While tending to his flock, he plants hundreds of thousands of acorns, creating abundance among what was previously lab abandoned. This story spans over both world wars. The speaker’s voice serves as a witness to the changes that occur—in nature, the geographical movement of people, and in Elzéard. Accompanying this folkloric tale are original illustrations by artist Michael McCurdy, which help to solidify Giono’s ideas and make them come alive on the page.
Review
I understand the significance of this book. The prose is understated and beautiful, reflecting the ability for nature to imitate art and vice versa. It relies on mythic conventions, but is also quite modern and simplified. Although it packs a punch with its moral gravity, I didn’t find it especially memorable. It was hard for me to relate to any of the characters, which I think is essential to short form. I was looking for something more to hold onto and root me into the characters’ perspectives and wasn’t getting that. If you’re looking for something thought provoking to read in one sitting, I would recommend this one.