In the middle of a little forest, there lives a Little Tree who loves his life and the splendid leaves that keep him cool in the heat of long summer days. Life is perfect just the way it is. Autumn arrives, and with it the cool winds that ruffle Little Tree's leaves. One by one the other trees drop their leaves, facing the cold of winter head on. But not Little Tree—he hugs his leaves as tightly as he can. (goodreads summary)
Fall is one of my favorite times of the year! I love taking an early morning hike in the cool and crisp air. As the leaves turn into a brilliant blaze of colors, I stop for a moment and take in the breathtaking beauty nature has to offer. I love sitting by a fire with a warm and cozy blanket, which takes away that sudden chill as it slowly grows darker earlier in the evenings. But what I really love most is finding all these wonderful fall season books waiting to be read!
Here is a beautiful story to share on a cold and chilly Autumn weekend about a little tree who is afraid to let go and change. He refuses to shed his leaves keeping him from growing big like the other trees around him. Even with the encouragement from his forest friends, he chooses to hold onto his leaves year after year because he is happy just the way he is. Eventually, the other trees grow big and strong blocking the sunshine from Little Tree. As each season passes, he must decide if he is ready yet to move on or keep missing out on the many splendid things going on around him. The text and illustrations are simple but are definitely full of important meaning. The pages are bold, full of color and is an easy read-aloud. Growing up can be a little frightening for young kids. I experienced this with my own son when he was turning 4 years old. The uncertainty of the big world and its expectations must have been overwhelming and this would have been a great read for us at that time. It is more than just a sweet book about the change of the seasons. It will help kids understand that change is okay and there are many wonderful opportunities awaiting them if they let themselves grow. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~
Title: Little Tree
Author: Loren Long
Pub. Date: October 2015, Philomel Books
Genre: picture book
Hardcover, 40 pgs.
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