A Seed Takes Root - by Michele Oka Doner (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

"An 'artist's book' in the best sense of that term, with the touch of the artist who created it palpable everywhere in its pages." --Leonard S. Marcus

"Conveys a materiality that leaps off the printed page" --Galerie Magazine

A Seed Takes Root: A True Story, by acclaimed artist Michele Oka Doner, is an homage to the natural world and to one very special banyan tree in particular.

A Seed Takes Root describes a decades-long relationship between the author and a banyan tree that begins when the author is a young girl. For her, the tree is a place for play, for refuge, and also a source of inspiration. While this is a true story of one tree and one girl/woman/artist that celebrates a particular banyan tree, it is also a testament to the quiet power shared by all trees. Further, this beautifully told story is not only of the relationship between an artist and a tree, but is a strong environmental statement made more effective by being non-polemical.

The banyan tree featured in the book is in the process of being designated a City of Miami Beach heritage tree. In 2021, Michele Oka Doner was officially proclaimed guardian of the ninety-five-year-old banyan tree by the City of Miami Beach. A book and work of art that defies classification, A Seed Takes Root is simultaneously an art book, a poetic meditation, a memoir, a fable, and a tale suitable for children and for readers of all ages.

Review Quotes

"This book will certainly plant loving seeds in young souls, who will want to have an intimate relationship with trees, just like the artist. The publication's carefully crafted splendor will make it a true treasure in their lives."---Suzanne Ramljak, Chief Curator, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

The work of Michele Oka Doner has always displayed an otherworldly connection and deep affection for nature... Her latest release... once again proves her unique ability to conjure something that can touch many people in a powerful way. An art book, a poem, a children's story, an environmental statement, and more, this delightful volume can be enjoyed in many aspects and by readers of all ages...conveying a materiality that leaps off the printed page.--Jacqueline Terrebonne "Galerie Magazine"

"This is a special book for daydreamers. It tells a personal yet also universal tale--a story about growing up that has deep roots in the natural connection young people feel with the myriad life forms they find all around them. It is an artist's book' in the best sense of that term, with the touch of the artist who created it palpable everywhere in its pages." --Leonard S. Marcus