A Tree Is A Community, written by David L. Harrison and illustrated by Kate Cosgrove. Holiday House, Penguin Random House. 2024. $25.99 ages 5 and up

 

"Winter FREEZES 
like icicles 
down your back. 
The tree 
holds up her BARE arms 
and SURRENDERS." 

This is the 11th book published by Holiday House in its Books for a Better Earth series. The books are designed 'to inspire young people to become more active, knowledgeable participants in caring for the planet they live on.' To that end, David L. Harrison uses striking free verse text to explore the wonders of trees. 

It is a book that begs to be read aloud. There is much to love about the trees that surround us. He takes readers from early spring, through the seasons, and back again to a new awakening the following spring. In between he explores the tree's use of rain's moisture to awaken its roots, and encourage the growth of new leaves, flowers and seeds. He pays homage to the creatures that find homes in trees, and the ecosystem that exists right there. 

"New squirrels 
LEAP 
and ACROBAT around, 
and spiders 
HANG webs 
like sticky curtains 
so moths not looking 
get WRAPPED up 
in their work."

That tree is also breathing in the air that we breathe out and breathing out the oxygen we need, while protecting its inhabitants from extreme weather changes. It continually extends an invitation for new life to find a home within its branches and in its trunk. As the book ends, two children can be seen blowing bubbles and sharing a ride on the tree's swing while enjoying a shady spot. 

Mr. Harrison's lively text pairs well with the charming and colorful artwork of Kate Cosgrove. The tree's world comes clearly to life as illustrations invite readers to explore their own natural world. In an afterword, David Harrison explains why trees are so important to life on Earth. He talks about a favorite tree in his own backyard that he watches daily for signs of life, and inspiration for his writing. He then suggests that the reader choose a favorite tree of their own to watch. 

Further back matter includes a bibliography and an index. 

Upcoming titles in this series include Frozen in Time, Plight of the Pelican, The Air We Share, Scat, Riverkeeper, Detective Dogs, My Pollinator Garden, and Eating to Save the Planet. All are due to be published early in 2025.