Be a Tree! - by Maria Gianferrari (Hardcover)

About the Book

Compares the structures and functions of trees to human bodies, shows the interconnectness and dependence of trees in a forest, and urges readers to communicate, share, and care for one another. Includes notes on the anatomy of a tree, ways to help save trees, and how to help in one's community.

Book Synopsis

Be a Tree! is a lyrical, gorgeously illustrated look at the majesty of trees--and what humans can learn from them.

We are all like trees: our spines, trunks; our skin, bark; our hearts giving us strength and support, like heartwood. We are fueled by air and sun.

And, like humans, trees are social. They "talk" to spread information; they share food and resources. They shelter and take care of one another. They are stronger together.

In this gorgeous and poetic celebration of one of nature's greatest creations, acclaimed author Maria Gianferrari and illustrator Felicita Sala compare us to the beauty and majesty of trees--and gently share the ways in which trees can inspire us to be better people.

"By foregrounding living beings that exemplify grace, strength, and endurance, Gianferrari gives readers a new way to think about their individual and collective existences." --Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

Stand tall.
Stretch your branches to the sun.
Be a tree!

Review Quotes

**STARRED REVIEW**
"By foregrounding living beings that exemplify grace, strength, and endurance, Gianferrari gives readers a new way to think about their individual and collective existences."--Publishers Weekly

**STARRED REVIEW**
"This book has the advantage of lyrical, accessible poetry and vibrant watercolors from an ever changing palette."--Kirkus Reviews

"An encouraging nudge to look toward nature for guidance, and a valuable message that "together, we are a forest."" --The Horn Book Magazine

About the Author

Maria Gianferrari has always loved trees. She has climbed fig trees in Italy, stood under stately coastal redwoods and twisted Torrey pines, and marveled at mitten-shaped sassafras leaves, colorful coral trees, and sawtooth oak acorn nests. She lives with her family in a house encircled by trees, one of which is a spruce planted in memory of her beloved dog, Becca. Be a Tree! is her first book with Abrams.

Felicita Sala is a self-taught illustrator. She has illustrated several picture books, including the award-winning She Made a Monster: How Mary Shelley Created Frankenstein by Lynn Fulton, and The Hideout by Susanna Mattiangeli, as well as her own book of recipes for children, What's Cooking at 10 Garden Street? She grew up between Italy and Australia and now lives in Rome with her family.