Little Tree by Loren Long

Little Tree 
by Loren Long
Published 2015
Philomel Books
40 Pages
Review copy obtained from public library

Goodreads Summary

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. Year after year Little Tree remains unchanged, despite words of encouragement from a squirrel, a fawn, and a fox, his leaves having long since turned brown and withered. As Little Tree sits in the shadow of the other trees, now grown sturdy and tall as though to touch the sun, he remembers when they were all the same size. And he knows he has an important decision to make.

My Thoughts

I absolutely love this book! I found the concept of a tree clinging to its leaves to be very interesting. Imagine what this little tree must be feeling. It would be interesting to discuss this with children. What are the reasons they would give? This is the kind of picture book I can see being used in many grade levels for different reasons. I love it when find picture books that can be used K-5. The pictures are wonderful and really show how the other trees continue to develop and grow strong while the little tree stays small as it holds tight to its leaves. I definitely need to own this one!