Summary of The Man Who Planted Trees

The Man Who Planted Trees is a classic environmental fable written by Jean Giono in 1953. It tells the story of Elzéard Bouffier, an old shepherd who spends his time planting thousands of acorns across an isolated and barren valley in Provence, France. Through the course of his decades-long effort, he is able to transform the barren wasteland into a lush and flourishing area known as the Valley of Hundred Oaks. Bouffier never seeks any reward or recognition for his actions, and acts purely out of his own personal love of the land. The story serves as an inspiring example of how individuals can make profound and lasting changes when they commit themselves to a single cause.