The Watermelon Tree: El Árbol De Sandías - Hardcover

by Sylvia G. Ulmer (Author)

Roger and Randy, twins from Santa Ana, arrive at the farm to visit with grandpa and grandma during summer break.

They learn about farm-related work and the importance of farmers and their farm for surrounding communities. The boys feed the chickens, gather eggs, weed the garden, and dig worms for fishing, all while having fun with their grandparents. They create wonderful and lasting memories during their time in the rural area.

Based on a true story, this bilingual picture book for children answers the question often asked by young boys and girls: How come watermelons don't grow on trees?

Author Biography

Sylvia G. Ulmer worked as a teacher in the San Joaquin Valley and spent her entire career as an educator. She spent many years as a school principal and later as the director of educational services for the Stockton Unified School District in Stockton, California.

Her family emigrated from El Salvador, Central America, to the United States when she was a teenager. She earned her citizenship, and California became her home. After receiving her bachelor's and master's degrees, she went on to earn a doctorate degree in administration and research.

During her career, Dr. Ulmer received many awards, including the University of the Pacific, Phi Delta Kappa Chapter, administrator of the year award. Her legacy and extensive work with children learning English was recognized and celebrated in the City of Stockton when she became the recipient of the prestigious Susan B. Anthony Award in 2012. She has also been recognized in an international poetry competition through the University of the Pacific, Stockton, California.

She has been married for fifty-four years and has three children and ten grandchildren. Now retired, she is enjoying editing the poems and stories she has written throughout her years in education, as well as creating new writings. In this book, Dr. Ulmer focused on a true story involving her son Roger and her own younger brother, Randy, who spent many of their weekends together when the Ulmers lived at a small farm in Lockford, California. Since the boys were only one year apart, they enjoyed similar adventures. Always curious, the boys let their imaginations run wild as they enjoyed life at the farm. The boys acted as twins and loved adventure. Dr. Ulmer invites you to read this story to your children.