RUTHIE'S BIG TREE Shirley Day. Toronto, Annick Press, c1982. Distributed by Firefly. unpaged, paper, $12.95 (paperbound boards), $5.95 (paper). ISBN 0-920236-33-2 (paperbound boards), 0-920236-35-9 (paper). Grades K-3. Reviewed by Enid Dorward. Volume 11 Number 1. 1983 January. Ruthie is a little girl with a big best friend—a huge old weeping willow tree, her favourite place in which to think and to play with her friends. The tree's owner decides to have it cut down when he discovers that he is unable to sell the vacant lot on which it stands because no one wants such a big tree. Ruthie sits in the tree's branches so that the tree cutters cannot destroy it, and before long a family that likes big trees decides to buy the lot. The tree is safe! This is a well-written story in which an assertive girl takes effective action to save something she loves. The story will show youngsters that they can influence what happens around them. It also demonstrates a peaceful way to protest against a situation that is considered unacceptable. (One objection: the owner of the tree is referred to as "old man Tester" rather than "Mr. Tester.") The illustrations are simple but well drawn, colour pages alternating with black and white. The print is clear and of a suitable size for primary children. This book is definitely recommended for the primary grades. Enid Dorward, Winnipeg, MB.