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The Very Oldest Pear Tree
In the 1630s in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, a Puritan settler planted a pear tree--the first pear tree in America. More than a century later, the tree still bore fruit, impressing a famous poet and one of the first US presidents. The pear tree survived hurricanes, fire, and vandalism, and today, more than 350 years after it was first planted, it's alive and strong, and clones of it grow all around the US. This is the amazing true story of the Endicott Pear tree, and how it grew up with our nation.
32 pages, Hardcover
Published August 1, 2020
98 people want to read
About the author
Nancy I. Sanders
136 books76 followersNancy I. Sanders is the bestselling and award-winning children's author of over 100 books. Her children's books include D IS FOR DRINKING GOURD: AN AFRICAN AMERICAN ALPHABET, AMERICA'S BLACK FOUNDERS, and FREDERICK DOUGLASS FOR KIDS. She loves to teach writers at writing conferences and teleclasses so that they can take their writing career to the next level. Her workshops are based on her groundbreaking book, YES! YOU CAN LEARN HOW TO WRITE CHILDREN'S BOOKS, GET THEM PUBLISHED, AND BUILD A SUCCESSFUL WRITING CAREER. Nancy and her husband Jeff live near Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 20, 2020
If you enjoy having your kids read good stories that also teach them about American history, you'll definitely want to check out The Very Oldest Pear Tree by Nancy I. Sanders. This book tells the story of an historic pear tree in New England, and through this story, it shares more than 400 years of American history. As the tree grows and weathers storms, industrialization, and attacks, so too, has the country. This is perfect for any child's bookshelf and is a must-have for classrooms and homeschools.
*I received an advance copy in exchange for an impartial review.
*I received an advance copy in exchange for an impartial review.
June 30, 2020
So often I walk by old trees and wonder what stories they would tell if they could. How thrilling to find a book that gives us the answer, at least for one very special pear tree. With gorgeous language, great tension, and beautiful illustrations, this book was a winner for me.
*I was given an uncorrected advanced copy for review.
*I was given an uncorrected advanced copy for review.
July 8, 2020
This amazing true story of the Endicott Pear Tree and how it grew up with our nation. II definitely recommend it to upper-grade elementary teachers of writing and social studies. If the trees in your neighborhood could tell a story, what would they say?
Want to read
August 5, 2020Review of The Very Oldest Pear Tree by Nancy I. Sanders
Illustrated by Yas Imamura
Published by Albert Whitman & Co. in 2020.
The Very Oldest Pear Tree is a fascinating historical account of the life of Governor John Endecott’s pear tree. The pear sapling was one of the first pear trees planted in the New World. It still lives and bears fruit today near Danvers, Massachusetts.
Sanders skillfully weaves many of the historic moments of America’s history into this ancient tree’s story. It is almost 400 years old and still thriving.
Teachers and homeschooling parent will find The Very Oldest Pear Tree a welcome addition to your resources. School and public libraries will easily find its usefulness in the areas of American history, the study of plants and horticulture.
The illustrations on every page add vibrancy to hold the attention of students.
I highly recommend this as an addition to your family library.
Illustrated by Yas Imamura
Published by Albert Whitman & Co. in 2020.
The Very Oldest Pear Tree is a fascinating historical account of the life of Governor John Endecott’s pear tree. The pear sapling was one of the first pear trees planted in the New World. It still lives and bears fruit today near Danvers, Massachusetts.
Sanders skillfully weaves many of the historic moments of America’s history into this ancient tree’s story. It is almost 400 years old and still thriving.
Teachers and homeschooling parent will find The Very Oldest Pear Tree a welcome addition to your resources. School and public libraries will easily find its usefulness in the areas of American history, the study of plants and horticulture.
The illustrations on every page add vibrancy to hold the attention of students.
I highly recommend this as an addition to your family library.
August 6, 2020
When I discovered The Oldest Pear Tree was a non-fiction book, my interest was piqued. After all, how many children’s books put a tree as its focal point? As soon as Sanders introduced the plant making its way to America, I became invested in its well-being. Or you could say I "rooted" for it.
The story follows the life of a famous pear tree planted during the earliest moments of American history. The tree weathered 400 years of American history, all the way up to our present day. Despite the danger of fire, neglect, industrialization, and vandalism, this deeply rooted tree continues to thrive.
I appreciated the fascinating details Sanders dug up along with her subtle lesson of resilience. The book “pears” well with classroom learning platforms (pun intended). Teacher could use it as a springboard to discuss certain aspects of history or branch out into a science unit on life cycles or parts of a plant. Well done, Nancy Sanders!
The story follows the life of a famous pear tree planted during the earliest moments of American history. The tree weathered 400 years of American history, all the way up to our present day. Despite the danger of fire, neglect, industrialization, and vandalism, this deeply rooted tree continues to thrive.
I appreciated the fascinating details Sanders dug up along with her subtle lesson of resilience. The book “pears” well with classroom learning platforms (pun intended). Teacher could use it as a springboard to discuss certain aspects of history or branch out into a science unit on life cycles or parts of a plant. Well done, Nancy Sanders!
August 6, 2020
The Very Oldest Pear Tree by Nancy I. Sanders isn’t just about a tree, it’s about American history, from before the country was born. Beginning in the 1600s and summarizing over 300 years of the tree’s life—and near death—this book does an amazing job of making connections between settlers, U.S. Presidents, and poets to a tree that still bears fruit today. The lovely black and white illustrations harken back to olden days adding context and mood. I received a preview file of this book to review. I highly recommend this book. What an imaginative and engaging way to illuminate American history!
September 23, 2020
Lush, inviting illustrations by Yas Imamura and a clear, simple telling of one tree's history over the backdrop of moments in American history by Nancy Sanders will make an excellent springboard for conversation between teachers and their students or parents and their children on a variety of topics. There's a cameo of a famous friend of the tree (the poet Longfellow), and seeing the tree weather storms, fires, vandalism, and hurricanes but survive due to its deep roots and the rich soil, welcomes conversation about resilience. (Loved the introductions to Arbor Day and to plant grafting, too.)
August 8, 2020
What a delightful book! I learned new information about the famous pear tree. With wonderful illustrations and the path of the tree in history, this is a great book to read and share. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
March 29, 2022
This informational book for readers from 5-8 years old, tells the inspirational story of how the Endicott pear tree grew up with our nation.
The year is 1630. The main character is a pear tree sapling that is shipped to the governor of Salem, John Endecott. He has missed the fruit trees in England and is determined to start an orchard.
Governor Endecott picked the little pear tree to grow right in front of his house, hoping that it would live a long time. "The tree was small yet strong. Though young, its roots reached deep."
Twelve years later a fire blew through the orchard, destroying hundreds of trees--but the Endecott pear was spared. Generations passed. The family changed the spelling of their last name, the Governor's house crumbled, but the Endicott pear tree--with its new name, stood.
By the time our second president of the United States, John Adams, ate one of its pears, the tree had become a legend. It inspired Massachusetts poets like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Lucy Larcom.
The tree survived a hurricane in 1938 and vandalism in 1964. Tree experts were unable to graft new branches. But, the Endicott pear tree tree sent out roots and "almost miraculously, a hundred tiny branches sprouted along the trunks. It survived!"
In 1997 a cutting was used to grow a new Endicott pear tree. Clones were made, seeds stored in a storage bank, and now Endicott pear trees have been planted across the nation--including this one, that Nancy planted and is now six feet tall!
Today, about four hundred years old, the Endicott pear tree is the oldest living tree cultivated in America. When John Endecott first planned it in front of his house, he expected the pear tree to outlive him by more than a hundred years. But no one imagined its story could still be told today.
The Endicott pear tree is a survivor. It's older than America itself. And it's still standing strong.
The year is 1630. The main character is a pear tree sapling that is shipped to the governor of Salem, John Endecott. He has missed the fruit trees in England and is determined to start an orchard.
Governor Endecott picked the little pear tree to grow right in front of his house, hoping that it would live a long time. "The tree was small yet strong. Though young, its roots reached deep."
Twelve years later a fire blew through the orchard, destroying hundreds of trees--but the Endecott pear was spared. Generations passed. The family changed the spelling of their last name, the Governor's house crumbled, but the Endicott pear tree--with its new name, stood.
By the time our second president of the United States, John Adams, ate one of its pears, the tree had become a legend. It inspired Massachusetts poets like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Lucy Larcom.
The tree survived a hurricane in 1938 and vandalism in 1964. Tree experts were unable to graft new branches. But, the Endicott pear tree tree sent out roots and "almost miraculously, a hundred tiny branches sprouted along the trunks. It survived!"
In 1997 a cutting was used to grow a new Endicott pear tree. Clones were made, seeds stored in a storage bank, and now Endicott pear trees have been planted across the nation--including this one, that Nancy planted and is now six feet tall!
Today, about four hundred years old, the Endicott pear tree is the oldest living tree cultivated in America. When John Endecott first planned it in front of his house, he expected the pear tree to outlive him by more than a hundred years. But no one imagined its story could still be told today.
The Endicott pear tree is a survivor. It's older than America itself. And it's still standing strong.
August 23, 2020
This is the amazing true story of the first pear tree that was planted in America in 1630. It was tended by John Endicott, the Puritan governor who planted it on his farm. This tree, known as the Endicott pear, grew and continued to thrive through the Revolutionary War and Industrial Revolution. It even inspired poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and the holiday of Arbor Day. It survived fierce storms and urbanization but nearly succumbed when vandals hacked away the limbs. Miraculously, the tree sprouted again and still stands after nearly 400 years!
Why you need to add THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE to your book shelves:
1. This is a story which is so fantastic that it almost doesn’t seem possible. Author Nancy I. Sanders conducted extensive research using original documents and interviews.
2. The beautiful art has a vintage feel and with bright colors flowing across the pages. I especially like the way illustrator Yas Imamura depicted the different time periods through the clothing and architecture of each era.
3. There are so many ways it can be used in the classroom. The history of the tree is a marvelous way to teach an overview of the growth of the U.S. from its Puritan times to today. In addition, science is woven into the text as the growth and regrowth of the tree is explained.
4. THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE is a story of hope and survival which now, more than ever, we all need.
Why you need to add THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE to your book shelves:
1. This is a story which is so fantastic that it almost doesn’t seem possible. Author Nancy I. Sanders conducted extensive research using original documents and interviews.
2. The beautiful art has a vintage feel and with bright colors flowing across the pages. I especially like the way illustrator Yas Imamura depicted the different time periods through the clothing and architecture of each era.
3. There are so many ways it can be used in the classroom. The history of the tree is a marvelous way to teach an overview of the growth of the U.S. from its Puritan times to today. In addition, science is woven into the text as the growth and regrowth of the tree is explained.
4. THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE is a story of hope and survival which now, more than ever, we all need.
January 17, 2021
I have always loved using non-fiction picture books in both classroom and homeschool settings to inspire my students and introduce them to new historical and/or scientific topics. I’ve discovered that even older students and adults can enjoy and benefit from the picture book format too, as it gives an easy, creative overview of a particular subject. THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE by Nancy I. Sanders is no exception, and I highly recommend this amazing book to both children and adults alike!
I admit that I had never heard of the Endicott Pear Tree (that still stands in Danvers, near Salem Massachusetts) before reading this book. The tree, which was planted in the 1630s, has a long recorded history—which in itself is quite remarkable, and it has the honor of being the oldest pear tree in America. It has withstood fire, hurricanes, neglect, and vandalism and survived for over 350 years, and clones of the original tree now grow all over our country.
After reading this book by Nancy Sanders and admiring the beautiful illustrations by Yas Imamura, I want to visit the original, historic Endicott Pear Tree and see it for myself. Like our great nation, the tree has withstood the test of time and many ups and downs--yet it still stands. I find the symbolism comforting.
THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE is an inspiring read about a lesser-known American landmark, but it deserves a spot on every history lover’s shelf!
I admit that I had never heard of the Endicott Pear Tree (that still stands in Danvers, near Salem Massachusetts) before reading this book. The tree, which was planted in the 1630s, has a long recorded history—which in itself is quite remarkable, and it has the honor of being the oldest pear tree in America. It has withstood fire, hurricanes, neglect, and vandalism and survived for over 350 years, and clones of the original tree now grow all over our country.
After reading this book by Nancy Sanders and admiring the beautiful illustrations by Yas Imamura, I want to visit the original, historic Endicott Pear Tree and see it for myself. Like our great nation, the tree has withstood the test of time and many ups and downs--yet it still stands. I find the symbolism comforting.
THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE is an inspiring read about a lesser-known American landmark, but it deserves a spot on every history lover’s shelf!
October 2, 2020
THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE by best-selling, award-winning writer Nancy I. Sanders, is a well-researched, fascinating and true adventure story about America’s oldest living tree, the Endicott Pear Tree. Still standing strong today, the Endicott Pear Tree has survived “wild waves of the Atlantic Ocean” and “crisp sea breezes” onboard on a cargo ship from England to America in the spring of 1630, a devastating orchard fire in 1644, the worst hurricane in the history of New England in 1938, and having its branches hacked by night vandals in 1964. When Governor John Endecott (the family name was eventually changed to Endicott) planted the little pear tree with deep roots in front of his house in 1632, he hoped it would outlive him by more than a hundred years. Little did he realize back then, this pear tree would miraculously still be standing today and its story would have become a living legend. This captivating, educational book grasped my attention from beginning to end and the lively, vibrant watercolour illustrations by Yas Imanura added to the enjoyment of this inspiring, historical tale.
THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE would be a wonderful addition to home and school libraries to expose children to an interesting part of American history and show them the importance of determination and standing strong in the face of adversity!
THE VERY OLDEST PEAR TREE would be a wonderful addition to home and school libraries to expose children to an interesting part of American history and show them the importance of determination and standing strong in the face of adversity!
March 11, 2025
Here is a true story about the oldest fruit tree in the country. It’s almost more than 400 years old. It was planted in 1632 by the pilgrim governor John Endecott on his fruit farm. The tree went through the revolutionary war, a fire on the farm and a horrible hurricane in 1937. The tree still stands. How amazing. Many poets have written about the tree as well like Longfellow and others.
In 1963 when there was a factory there, some vandals came in the night and hacked all the 300 plus year old branches off. They tried to graft some twigs back on, but it didn’t take. The tree survived and sprouted hundreds of twigs.
To this very day, the tree is still growing. IN 2036, if it makes it, it will be 400 years old, older than our nation. It was brought over from England on a ship across the ocean.
Truly, what a neat story. Somehow, this story makes my heart glow. How incredible. The fruit is tough and sour now and no longer edible, but many saplings have been collected from it and you can still by and Endicott pear (they changed the spelling of their name in the 1700s)
The artwork is nice. It looks like watercolor, but it doesn’t say. The art is an ode to trees.
In 1963 when there was a factory there, some vandals came in the night and hacked all the 300 plus year old branches off. They tried to graft some twigs back on, but it didn’t take. The tree survived and sprouted hundreds of twigs.
To this very day, the tree is still growing. IN 2036, if it makes it, it will be 400 years old, older than our nation. It was brought over from England on a ship across the ocean.
Truly, what a neat story. Somehow, this story makes my heart glow. How incredible. The fruit is tough and sour now and no longer edible, but many saplings have been collected from it and you can still by and Endicott pear (they changed the spelling of their name in the 1700s)
The artwork is nice. It looks like watercolor, but it doesn’t say. The art is an ode to trees.
December 8, 2020
The Very Oldest Pear Tree by Nancy I. Sanders is the fascinating story of a pear tree sapling that began its life in England around 1630 and continues to thrive to this day! I had no idea about the background of the Endicott pear tree in America, and I found the story so intriguing. Sanders found a unique way to teach history lessons - from the Puritans of early Massachusetts to Paul Revere to George Washington and John Adams, to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow to the first Arbor Day to the present-day pear tree - with a little pear tree as the main character! Wow! And, who couldn't help but root for that little guy? (Did you catch my pun there? haha) So much history surrounding one small pear sapling! And the underlying theme of the book - that of a resilient nation despite hurricanes and storms and other challenges - is wrapped up in this quote: "And it's still standing strong." And you know what? Who couldn't use this message - adults or kids - in light of recent events in our country and world. When each of us can stand strong individually, support one another corporately, we can stand strong and united as a country! A must-read!
October 27, 2020
This book is a treasure for any teacher! Author Nancy I. Sanders writes in a clear and accessible way about the fascinating life of a pear tree planted by John Endecott, the governor of Salem in the 1600’s. The life of the tree is followed through the 13 colonies, the American Revolution, the first presidents of the United States, and the Industrial Revolution, continuing to the present. The author skillfully weaves in historical details without weighing the story down. Children will be amazed to learn that the tree is still alive even though it is older than the United States! (It would be a great activity to make a timeline of the events/periods mentioned in the book!) This book is a wonderful tie-in for social studies and science classes (cloning, gene banks, etc.) and will also spark discussions about resilience. Whether you teach or not, you will enjoy reading about this amazing tree! I received a copy of this book for review, but all opinions are my own.
September 22, 2021
The Very Oldest Pear Tree is the true story of the Endicott/Endecott pear tree that is over four hundred years old. It is the oldest documented planting in this country, and has had a tumultuous history. From its cross-oceanic trip to historic storms to modern-day vandals, the tree has survived extremes. Of interest to budding botanists, domestic historians, and New Englanders, the Endicott pear tree's story is told with relation to the major players in the history of the Massachusetts Bay Colony and the nation. Readers will recognize Paul Revere, John Adams, and Longfellow. And local Massachusettsians (is that a word?) will want to stop by Danvers and visit the tree next time they are in the area.
For this transplanted lover of Sequoias and local history, I'm determined to plan a day trip to my adopted state's most famous tree.
For this transplanted lover of Sequoias and local history, I'm determined to plan a day trip to my adopted state's most famous tree.
August 17, 2020
With all that is going on in the world, this book offers young readers hope! Despite proponents of revisionist history, The Very Oldest Pear Tree brings hope that America will continue as a nation. Hope that there are still Americans who love their country. Hope that future generation will pass on our brave history to their children's children. Nancy Sanders has lovingly woven this heart-warming account of a pear tree brought to America from England via ship. Bravely, the tree still stands today, having survived fires, storms, and neglect, thanks to dedicated arborists and naturalists. With stellar sketches that engage well with the text, a young reader will not easily forget this little-known and fascinating piece of America’s history. I received a preview file of the book to review.
September 13, 2020
This charming book takes children through American history from the pilgrims and the planting of a pear seedling in 1630 by Governor John Endicott of Massachusetts to the present. Called the Endicott Pear Tree, located in Danvers, MA, weathered storms, fire, modernization of a town, vandalism, and wars. It symbolizes American resiliency, hope, and patriotism. The book shares history from what happened as the tree grew and survived. A great story that shows the strength of trees and strength of our country. Children will be fascinated by the story and fear for the tree as each disaster seems like it will destroy the tree forever, They will rejoice as the tree survives. It's a page turned and that makes it a most unusual history book.
November 20, 2020
Even if it didn't have beautiful illustrations (which it does!), The Very Oldest Pear Tree by Nancy I. Sanders is told with such evocative imagery, readers wouldn't miss a thing: "Crisp sea breezes blew across the crew working the rigging, and shivered the leaves of a little pear tree onboard."
This cleverly told history of the Endicott Pear Tree goes beyond the horticultural and into the heart as the USA grew up around it. I was surprised at how emotionally invested I found myself upon reading of the tree's challenges (fire, hurricanes, and vandals, oh my!), and how it overcame each one.
This inspirational book is perfect for history lovers, teachers, and Arbor Day fanatics. Oh, kids too.
This cleverly told history of the Endicott Pear Tree goes beyond the horticultural and into the heart as the USA grew up around it. I was surprised at how emotionally invested I found myself upon reading of the tree's challenges (fire, hurricanes, and vandals, oh my!), and how it overcame each one.
This inspirational book is perfect for history lovers, teachers, and Arbor Day fanatics. Oh, kids too.
August 19, 2020
Sanders’ newest picture book tells the story of the Endicott Pear Tree planted in 1632 in Salem, Massachusetts, which has witnessed 400 years of fascinating American history and its presidents. Children can see history alongside this tree such as John Adams eating its pears and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow being inspired by the tree. This story is a story of survival, from fire & vandalism. Kids will be impressed to read about the very oldest pear tree. Readers will enjoy Imamura’s lovely illustrations. Teachers can use this book in their plant unit.
October 19, 2020
What a fascinating way to weave the true story of an impressive very old pear tree through American history. The Endecott pear tree crossed the ocean as a sapling in 1830, to its new home in a Puritan Colony that would eventually become the state of Massachusetts. The reader will love the tree and at the same time watch the world change around it as the tree grew, sometimes struggled, yet touched the lives of many through the years. The tree is still standing today, and Endicott pear trees are still planted from clones of this tree. Children and adults alike will enjoy this rich story.
September 21, 2020
The Very Oldest Pear Tree by Nancy I. Sanders is a delightful tale for readers of all ages. The Endicott tree planted in the 1630s has lived many lifetimes in Massachusetts. The tale of the tree engages readers in a bit of local history as well as American history.
This is a work of nonfiction--all true--. But wow! It seems hard to believe. Children will love this. Teachers, add this book to your shelves.
A digital copy was provided for review purposes but all opinions are my own.
This is a work of nonfiction--all true--. But wow! It seems hard to believe. Children will love this. Teachers, add this book to your shelves.
A digital copy was provided for review purposes but all opinions are my own.
October 28, 2020
This is the account of the oldest fruit tree in America, still standing in Danvers, Massachusetts. Author Nancy Sanders creatively uses the tree as the central element in her storyline, painting the history of our nation from 1630 to the present day. This is an educational book, perfect for the classroom or for homeschool families. It would also make a great object lesson on persevering through adversity.
September 16, 2020
This lovely book tells the story of the Endicott pear tree - the first pear tree planted in America. Planted in the 1630s by Puritan settlers, it still survives today. It's fascinating to consider all the changes and challenges this tree has seen! Yas Imamura's illustrations bring the story to life. Highly recommend!
October 26, 2020
This lovely picture book tells the true story of a Puritan settler who planted the first pear tree on American soil. Almost 400 years later... surviving storms, a fire, and vandalism, that little tree is still standing. Informative and inspirational, this book offers a unique lens on American history. It should be bought by every teacher and included on every classroom bookshelf.
November 15, 2020
American history through a pear tree grown by an early Massachusetts governor, which survived fires, hurricanes, and even an assassination attempt by thugs through to the present. Maybe I'll go visit its grafted clone in Oregon. Today they are still making pear pies from the fruit, although it's guarded by a fence now to discourage more nighttime vandals.
Fun picture book.
Fun picture book.
January 22, 2021
At first I wasn't sure I was going to like this picture book, a simple story about a pear tree planted long ago, but as I kept reading, I realized that it was a true story and that the tree managed to survive so much. It's strength and the determination of the people who tend it, touched my heart.
February 20, 2021
This is just the kind of historical picture book I would have read to my students back when I was a fourth grade teacher. It’s engaging and the pear is the perfect hook to entice even the most reluctant reader. Well done!
Thanks to author Nancy I Sanders for sharing a digital arc of the book with me which I was under no obligation to review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Thanks to author Nancy I Sanders for sharing a digital arc of the book with me which I was under no obligation to review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
October 12, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book. I hold a particular interest in the area because of family connections which is why it caught my eye. But the story and history was really fascinating. If trees could talk!
January 22, 2021
I very much enjoyed reading the history of this almost 400-year-old tree in Massachusetts. And I am glad to know that there are individuals and and a community that continue to care for it and protect it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews