4.3 Stars

The Forest Keeper is the true story of Jadav Molai Payeng, the man who single-handedly planted a forest on a wasteland in Assam. He was determined to prevent the Brahmaputra floods from affecting the villages by planting trees to hold the soil and minimize the risk of flooding. 

For decades he worked alone, planting seeds, tending to the saplings, taking care of the trees, etc. The wasteland became a forest brimming with animals, birds, and insects. He had to face countless difficulties but overcame each of them. The forest is named after him. He is called the Forest Man of India. 

The book gives us his story in simple words (suitable for kids). The watercolor illustrations are dramatic and a wee bit blurry (seems intentional). Though it gives enough information, parents and teachers can get kids to search the internet for more. Books like this are important to show kids that they can achieve what they want with persistence and hard work. And most importantly, how nature will give back multifold if you give her a teeny seed. 

It’s amazing how one man's determination can change an entire region. Jadav is a tribesman for Majuli in Assam. Another example of how indigenous people are connected to the land. He still lives in the forest with his family. Together, they take care of it and its inhabitants. 

I received an ARC from NetGalley and NorthSouth Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.