Expressive text and art tell the story of the life cycle of trees as it has never been told Before --- in reverse.
Supported by well-researched backmatter, the book has strong curriculum links to early elementary earth and life science topics, including plants, ecosystems and soil..
The material has been vetted by several scientists, including experts on trees, insects and mushrooms.
Madeline Kloepper\'s rich artwork with its deep earth tone palette brings the forest and all its inhabitants alive on the page.
She also uniquely incorporates intriguing new research on how trees communicate with each other using an underground network of roots and fungus that connects the forest and helps the trees to thrive.
Jessica Kulekjian\'s skill at seamlessly blending nonfiction information with a poetic narrative sets this informational picture book apart.
Beginning with mature giants, Mighty in the kingdom of trees, and ending with the promise of new life on the branches that are hoping to be Mighty in the kingdom of trees, it\'s a beautiful and loving celebration of the circle of life.
Particular attention is paid throughout to what\'s happening underground and how that links all life in the forest.
For example, Before we Stood tall, we clothed ourselves in bark and crowned ourselves in leaves, waving eagerly at the sun. for a rhythmic telling. . .
The steps are described in simple but evocative text, each starting with Before .
Here\'s a lyrical depiction of the life cycle of trees, told one step at a time, based on newly researched information.
Expressive text and art tell the story of the life cycle of trees as it has never been told Before --- in reverse