Johnny Appleseed

Mary McDonnell's lulling narration draws viewers into this charming adaptation of the 1990 picture book written by Reeve Lindbergh and illustrated by Kathy Jakobsen. Born John Chapman, "Johnny Appleseed" was a mildly eccentric early 19th century itinerant apple tree grower, who roamed from his home state of Pennsylvania as far east as Ohio, sowing apple seeds and sharing stories, often biblical, with children and their families as he wandered. Combining poetry, animation, and an engaging soundtrack by Randy Scruggs, Johnny Appleseed offers both an inspiring look at a popular folk hero, and a good reminder of how much impact a single individual--barefoot, no less--can make. Recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (R. Pitman)