I am obsessed with this short and simple picture book! The story and the illustrations go so well together and it has such a cute message as well.

This is a delightful story exploring a girl’s relationship with two trees—and perhaps their relationship with each other too!

The first thing you notice about this book is Patricia Metola’s illustrations, with a crayon-esque, almost childlike style that is perfect for a story of a child’s determination. And the colors of the illustrations are beautiful—vivid reds and pinks and blues, whites and browns, lights and darks all make for a truly radiant story.

And the plot is lovely too! It’s so uplifting to see a child like Britta who finds joy in nature (something we could all stand to do more of). And I appreciate the way that this story respects Britta’s ability to effect change in the world, even if she is just a kid—this book will resonate with any kid who feels like they’re too young to execute their grand plans (which is basically every kid!).

I did wish for a little more character development in Britta’s family—her Nana supports all of her endeavors, but

Spoiler

her father and sister Bronwyn don’t budge from their disbelieving stance by the end of the book (even if her father is nice about it, and even if her sister still can’t quash Britta’s endless enthusiasm)

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Also, I loved but was also concerned by the connections to science in the story. On one hand, I had no idea that trees can actually support each other in the real world, passing nutrients to each other via fungi and even communicating via airborne gases, so I’m glad the author’s note informed me of this! On the other hand, the actual story itself is more “inspired by” this science than based in it, and there is something slightly off-putting about Britta’s certainty in her beliefs when they’re not exactly scientific. Then again, Britta’s certainty is what drives her love and excitement, and in the end, it’s probably far more important that she maintain her love and excitement regarding nature and the world at large!

What’s my verdict? A story of a child’s determination and two trees’ potential friendship, complete with delightful illustrations and loosely based on science—it’s worth checking out!

– Click here to see the full review on my blog!

I had no idea that trees could be friends! This definitely piqued my curiosity. I loved the parallel structure of the text as well. It might make a good storytime read in winter. Narrative skills?

Patricia Metola's illustrations are perfect for a story that feels like fantasy, but which the author's note reveals to be inspired by actual plant science. Laura Gehl brings us the story of two friends, Apple and Magnolia, and their helper. a little girl named Britta.

Britta sticks to her quest to keep both trees healthy and united, despite being surrounded by (mostly) naysayers.

This is a sweet story of friendship, belief, and perseverance. I think the author's note adds to the story, so I would definitely share the inspiration before reading it to a group.

Recommended for elementary school libraries. This would also be a good read aloud/read together for younger children.

(Read via Edelweiss ARC)

The illustrations are beautiful! It is an interesting story, but I do not believe the writing is enough to keep kids' attention. I was a little disappointed with the end. It would have been great to see Britta show her father and sibling that the trees really did work together.

Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book through Edelweiss. I also received a signed finished hardcover from the publisher at the ALA Annual 2022 conference.