Sundar is determined to live in a place where girls are valued as much as boys and where the land is not devastated by irresponsible mining. As he grows to be a man, Sundar suffers much heartbreak and decides it is time for change to come to his village. Based on a true story, this book celebrates environmental sustainability, community activism and ecofeminism.#This is the story of Sundar Paliwal, who is from a small Indian village ruled by ancient customs. In a small village in India, a boy grows up to make a huge difference in his community by planting trees to celebrate the birth of every girl. A thoroughly researched author’s note with photographs and more information about the village of Piplantri is included.

It also explores ideas of social development, community and culture, and the character education traits of responsibility and cooperation. With strong links to the science curriculum, this book offers lessons on environmental awareness, sustainability and stewardship, as well as the concept of ecofeminism. Beautiful illustrations by Marianne Ferrer sensitively bring the evolution of the village to life. His efforts have turned a once barren and deforested landscape into a fertile and prosperous one where girls can thrive.#Based on true events in the life of Sundar Paliwal, and written in collaboration with him, Rina Singh’s uplifting story shows how one person can make a difference in a community. And today, there are over a quarter of a million trees in his village, providing food, water and opportunities for women to earn a living. Though many villagers resist at first, Sundar slowly gains their support. Sundar’s plan? To celebrate the birth of every girl with the planting of 111 trees. He decides it’s time for change to come to his village. As he grows to be a man, Sundar witnesses how irresponsible mining ravages the countryside and how ancient customs and beliefs cause gender inequality and discrimination. Based on a true story, this book celebrates environmental sustainability, community activism and ecofeminism.#This is the story of Sundar Paliwal, who is from Piplantri, a small village in North India.

111 Trees by Marianne Ferrer