The Golden Spruce (book) facts for kids
Front paperback cover art for The Golden Spruce.
|
|
| Author | John Vaillant |
|---|---|
| Country | Canada |
| Language | English |
| Subject | Kiidk'yaas |
| Publisher | W. W. Norton & Company |
|
Publication date
|
May 17, 2005 |
| Media type | Print (hardcover), audiobook, e-book |
| Pages | 272 |
| ISBN | 978-0393058871 |
| OCLC | 66145134 |
| Followed by | The Tiger: A True Story of Vengeance and Survival |
The Golden Spruce: A True Story of Myth, Madness, and Greed is an exciting book by American author John Vaillant. It was his very first book, published in May 2005. This book tells a real story about a special tree and the people connected to it.
Contents
Discovering the Story
The story in this book first appeared as an article. John Vaillant wrote it for a magazine called The New Yorker in 2002. He then expanded it into this book.
While researching, Vaillant learned about the stories of the Golden Spruce. These stories are part of the history of different clans in the Pacific Northwest. He understood that he needed permission to share these important tales.
Vaillant also faced a challenge. Some main people in the story were not available to talk to. But he found that everyone leaves clues behind. These clues can be objects, documents, or memories from others.
The Golden Spruce Tree
This book focuses on a very special tree named Kiidk'yaas. It was also known as The Golden Spruce. This tree was a type of Sitka Spruce. It was highly respected by the Haida people, who are Indigenous people from Haida Gwaii.
Why the Tree Was Special
The Golden Spruce was unique because of a rare genetic change. This change made its needles appear golden in color. It stood out among all the other green trees. For the Haida people, it was a sacred symbol.
The Tree's Location
Kiidk'yaas grew on Haida Gwaii, a group of islands off the coast of British Columbia, Canada. These islands are known for their rich natural beauty and deep cultural history. The tree was a landmark for many years.
The Tree's Fate
Sadly, The Golden Spruce was cut down. This happened in Haida Gwaii. The person who felled it was an environmentalist named Grant Hadwin. His actions shocked many people around the world.
What the Book Explores
The book dives into the story of the tree and its felling. It explores why such a special tree was cut down. It also looks at the deep connection between people and nature.
Publishers Weekly described the book this way:
- The cutting down of the famous golden spruce tree in British Columbia became a powerful symbol.
- The book deeply studies this unusual act of environmental damage.
- It also shows a land with huge natural resources.
- But it also shows how human greed can be even greater.
The book helps readers understand the importance of nature. It also makes us think about our actions towards the environment.
