Why is the name of the book The Learning Tree an appropriate name?

The Learning Tree is a 1963 semi-autobiographical novel written by American writer, filmmaker, musician, and photographer Gordon Parks. It is also the title of the 1969 eponymous drama film, which was directed and produced by Gordon Parks as well. Both the book and the film tell the story of Newt Winger—a black boy who grew up in poverty in a small, racially divided village called Cherokee Flats, in Kansas. His story is filled with numerous ups and downs and depicts his troubled journey to adulthood. Thus, The Learning Tree is an appropriate title, as Newt essentially learns how to navigate his life. In fact, there is a touching moment in the book where Newt’s mom advises her son to never forget what he learned in Cherokee Flats: “Let Cherokee Flats be your learning tree.” With this, Parks tells us that no matter where we are or where we decide to go, we should never forget the lessons we learned in our homes, as they will guide us in our future.