"There were maples and oaks to the west, and a hemlock forest to the right that pulled me right across the sweet grasses, into it. Never, never have I seen such trees. They were giants—old, old giants. They must have begun when the world began."—Jean Craighead George, My Side of the Mountain
I stand in awe of a large Ash Tree, growing in my backyard for thirty-seven years. This tree not only provides wonderful shade during summer, but also is a place of rest for birds and squirrels. I can’t imagine life without trees, as they are essential to all outdoor spaces. Here is a list of books for kids interested in exploring the significance of trees.
Celebrate Wonderful Trees
Wangari Maathai: The Woman Who Planted Millions of Trees
"A tree has roots in the soil yet reaches to the sky. It tells us that in order to aspire we need to be grounded and that no matter how high we go it is from our roots that we draw sustenance. It is a reminder to all of us who have had success that we cannot forget where we came from. It signifies that no matter how powerful we become in government or how many awards we receive, our power and strength and our ability to reach our goals depend on the people, those whose work remain unseen, who are the soil out of which we grow, the shoulders on which we stand."― Wangari Maathai
111 Trees: How One Village Celebrates the Birth of Every Girl
The Magic and Mystery of Trees
Treecology: 30 Activities and Observations for Exploring the World of Trees and Forests
Trees: Kings of the Forest
A Forest in the City: ThinkCities Series, Book 1
Redwoods
If you had to choose one book to read about Redwoods, this would be it. This lovely book packs interesting facts into each page, paired with stunning illustrations that whisk the reader off to the heart of a Redwood forest, no matter where they happen to be (even if they’re in the heart of the big city). Kids and adults alike will walk away with a new appreciation for these trees and how they shape the world around them after reading this book. Recommended for ages 4+.
Fun fact: Redwood trees can live for more than 2,000 years and grow over 350 feet tall!
Can You Hear the Trees Talking?: Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest
Deep Roots: How Trees Sustain Our Planet