The Digger and the Flower

PreS-Gr 2—Each day, the trucks hoist, push, and dig as they work together to build tall buildings, long roads, and big bridges. The work is the same day after day until one day Digger is inspired to make a change. Upon the discovery of a tiny and beautiful blue flower in the rubble, Digger decides to care for the flower by watering it, shielding it from wind and rain, and even singing the flower bedtime lullabies. After the flower is destroyed, Digger travels past the farthest building and far away to scatter the seeds of the tiny blue flower. His decision will change his life and the city forever. Kuefler's simply written and beautifully illustrated tale has a powerful message about the importance of the environment. The brightly colored and textured digital art displays contrast between the black and gray of the city and the blues and greens of the natural world that Digger works so hard to preserve. With one small choice, Digger plants the seeds of change. And despite the giant skyscrapers that he left behind, he makes his own lasting mark by growing lovely blue flowers.