"There in the darkness, our roots
searched the soil and found a
family of trees reaching out for
us.
We wove ourselves together,
gathering strength from one
another. And we whispered
all our secrets through tiny
threads in the kingdom
underground."
There has been lots of talk recently, following a great deal of research, concerning tree stands and the trees' ability to communicate with each other. In this book, the author uses poetic language to describe the development of trees as they are today. Each of her initial statements talks about the 'before'.
"Before we stood tall ...
We clothed ourselves in bark and crowned
ourselves in leaves, waving eagerly at the sun.
Before our twigs transformed ... "
The words beg to be read aloud. In doing so, readers relish the descriptive language and its meaning concerning the forest being described. So much to learn about trees, their growth over time, and their place in today's natural world. Using new research, the author looks lyrically at the life cycle of trees. As she adds layers of understanding for growth, she pays careful attention to what is happening below ground as well.
For young readers it establishes a sense of place and importance. For older readers, especially with the addition of accessible and explanatory back matter, the learning is more extensive. Concepts are further explained concerning communication, the oldest trees, the layers of the forest, the production and release of seeds for further growth in forest habitats, and the wildlife that is supported there.
Sources are listed, including books, films, and useful websites. Appealing, child-like art will hold attention with its varied perspectives, earthy colors, and expressive details.
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