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Patricke Peartree: Modern Day Johnny Appleseed by Michael Mike Bourgeois Bourgeois Enterprises
book review by Amelia Blyden
"Patricke did not really remember how his fascination with pears began, but he knew it was the reason why his grandpa had nicknamed him Patricke Peartree."
This small paperback book, written for fourth and fifth graders is part fiction, part autobiographical, and part resource, and it is also based on a true story. The author has created a mythical Patricke Peartree to serve as a symbol for "anyone who strives to eliminate hunger by growing or otherwise procuring fruits, vegetables, and other produce to donate to persons in need." The story is "rooted in the Atchafalaya River Basin area of Louisiana."
Patricke is in awe of a pear tree, planted on a farm by an ancestor from Sicily, Antonino, 75 years ago. It still produces fruit that he and his grandfather deliver to Food Banks and soup kitchens. Bourgeois likens Patricke to Johnny Appleseed. In Steven Kellogg's classic tale, Johnny planted apple trees so that everyone could eat and make cider, vinegar, and apple butter. Patricke's family does likewise, producing pears..
The book is a brief, enlightening read. While diligently informing readers about his family history and sharing Patricke's story, the author interrupts the narrative with informative tips on the value of planting and sharing foods, useful Internet addresses, and historical facts about hunger. Illustrations add depth to the story. Sample posters, local food banks, and food rescue organizations in every state and Puerto Rico are listed in the end pages.
"This is where you come in." Bourgeois writes to the reader. "You can continue to keep the spirit of Johnny Appleseed alive..." Bourgeois is an award winning communications consultant and long-time Food Bank Volunteer.