The Man Who Planted Trees

The Man Who Planted Trees, by Jean Giono is an animated adaptation of the story was created in 1987. It won the Academy Award for best animated short film.

A work of fiction, it tells the story of one shepherd's long and successful singlehanded effort to re-forest a desolate valley in the foothills of the Alps. It means things to me on many levels. It reminds me of my father who often took me planting trees and thus takes me back to more secure times when things get tough.

It also provides inspiration for anyone beating away at an issue that will take generations to change, and some insight into the impact an individual can have and what can be achieved by small actions.

It touches on many deeper issues, including, deep ecology and the futility of war, and for me explores what we could be trying to achieve in life by taking positive actions not only for the benefit of others but also the good of the wider ecosystem. Its basically the story of someone doing the complete opposite of what humanity is collectively doing to our planet now.

Its also good if you like planting trees.