Red and Lulu

Holiday picture book, 40 pages. Published by Candlewick Press in 2017.

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Wondering

Have you ever wondered how the tradition of a Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center began?  Where does it come from? What kind of tree is it? How big is it and how many lights are used to decorate it? And what happens to such a big tree when the holiday season comes to an end? And, perhaps the most important question, have you wondered about the birds and other creatures living in the tree?

Tavares' sweet story of two cardinals - Red and Lulu - separated when their home is taken to the Rockefeller Center, becomes an ode to the miracles of Christmas when they are reunited through their song: Oh, Christmas Tree!  This is the holiday picture book I'll give to my Little Guy this year - he will love the story as well as learning about the special Rockefeller Christmas Tree.

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 Nonna's Recipe for Cultivating Wonder

Playfulness & Laughter
Willingness to Explore or Go on an Adventure
Seek out Beauty

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Ideas for Making It Real

I have two suggestions for bringing the beauty of Red and Lulu to life for your kiddos:

• If your community holds a community tree-lighting event, pack some hot cocoa, bundle up and head on down for an evening of delight. If there is not a community event, then create a special tree lighting ceremony at home - something you can do year-after-year because your kiddos are going to love it!
• Nature is often the first beauty in a child's life - foster the love of and care for this beauty by making some veterinarian-approved PB&J Bird Seed Ornaments and hang them in your yard at night!

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