Desert Giant

This delightful paperback children’s book is written for 6-to- 10 year olds, but everyone will enjoy learning more about the life cycle of the giant saguaros and the complex ecosystems supported by them. As the author, illustrator, and calligrapher of this popular book, Barbara Bash has painted a picture of life around the giant saguaro that many would never otherwise experience. Her colorful depictions compliment the text beautifully.

Many desert creatures depend on the saguaro not just for shelter, but also for food and water. Find out about the many different animals that make the saguaro their home such as Gila Woodpeckers, tiny Elf Owls, and black-and-rust-colored Harris Hawks that sometimes built nests in the forking arms of these magnificent cacti. The saguaro is special to desert people as well, especially the Tohono O’odham Indians who gather together each summer to harvest the sweet, red saguaro fruit. They make jelly, syrup and wine from the pulp, and leave the outer hull on the ground, face up, as an offering for rain.

Desert Giant has been featured on Reading Rainbow, and is the first volume in the Sierra Clubs “Tree Tales” series. This book remains a valuable curriculum resource, as well as a family classic. (DT)