One Day This Tree Will Fall
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- $16.99
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- $16.99
Publisher Description
Discover how a tree’s wounds and decay bring new life to the forest ecosystem in this lyrical nonfiction picture book for fans of Because of an Acorn and A Stone Sat Still.
When a tree falls, is its story over?
There are many ways a tree’s story could end: Gobbled up by a bird as a tiny seed. Damaged by wind or ice or fire. Chopped down and hauled away. But some trees—this tree—survives. And grows old. Riddled with scars, cracks, and crevices, it becomes a place creatures large and small call home.
One day, after standing tall for centuries, this tree will fall. But even then, is its story over? Or will it continue to nurture the forest and its creatures for many years to come? Complete with additional information about the role trees play in a forest ecosystem, this sweeping story invites readers of all ages to celebrate the incredible life cycle and afterlife of trees.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Taking a remarkably resilient Douglas fir as this picture book's subject, Barnard Booth expansively tracks the conifer's life cycle. Initial spreads tell a familiar story of transformation, from seed to sapling to weather-worn and fire-ravaged tree. "This tree's story might have ended that day," muses text before describing additional developments as the plant endures more damage, ages, dies, and collapses to the forest floor, where it decomposes and becomes "a perfect place...// for the next seed to settle." Throughout the tree's many life stages, forest creatures of myriad types both leave their mark and make their home, underscoring the central role that trees play in a larger ecosystem. Employing gouache, colored pencil, and digital techniques, Fizer Coleman's wildlife-filled scenes transpire against fuzzy, textured backgrounds and tree trunks, allowing more realistic renderings to stand out. Notes, a glossary, and sources conclude. Ages 4–8.
