Laurel and Red - by Kelley M Likes (Paperback)

About the Book

In the magical Redwood Forest, Laurel, a little Bay Laurel tree, forms an unlikely friendship with Red, a towering Redwood tree. Through bravery and friendship, they weather the storm and learn that unity is the true strength of the forest.

Book Synopsis

In the magical Redwood Forest, Laurel, a little Bay Laurel tree, forms an unlikely friendship with Red, a towering Redwood tree. The other Redwoods disapprove, but when a storm hits, Laurel's roots prove crucial in supporting Red. Through bravery and friendship, they weather the storm and learn that unity is the true strength of the forest.

Targeted for children ages 6-8, this book offers an inside look into the secret life of trees.

From writer Kelley M Likes and illustrator Hannah Staley-Foster comes a heartwarming tale for young readers about standing together in the face of challenges.

Kids ages: 6, 7, and 8

Grade Level: 1st and 2nd

Early/Transitional Reader

Lexile Level 480L

heartwarming forest tale of unity

teamwork and bravery in the Redwood Forest

SEL picture book about friendship and roots

perfect for Earth Day or Arbor Day storytime

learning to stand strong together

beautifully illustrated nature friendship story

great for school libraries and classrooms

early reader environmental awareness book

exploring the unseen strength of trees

Free Lesson Plans & Storytime Videos at www.likespublishing.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kelley M Likes is an award-winning children's author, publisher, and former T6 Certified educator who creates stories that inspire curiosity and kindness, build confidence, creativity, and resilience. Her books range from humorous picture books and beginning readers to social-emotional learning stories that help children navigate real-life challenges.

Her growing catalog includes titles such as Panic and the Happy Thought, The Pumpkin Who Stayed for Christmas, Quest for the Momma Violin, Snout, Ben Wise and the Purple Dragon, and the Mat early reader series.

As founder of Likes Publishing, Kelley is dedicated to producing high-quality books that inspire a lifelong love of reading while helping children navigate friendship, emotions, creativity, and personal growth.

A mini-stroke survivor, brain tumor host, and lifelong storyteller, Kelley believes books can help children see the world, and themselves, in new ways. When she's not writing, Kelley enjoys encouraging young writers, speaking to students about the publishing process, and helping aspiring authors bring their own stories to life.

EDUCATION:

Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) in Media and Technology

Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Business Education

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business Administration

Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Marketing and Management

MEMBER:

SCBWI

Storyteller Academy

The Authors Guild

IBPA Independent Book Publishers Association

Book an Author

Alliance of Independent Authors

AUTHOR VISITS

I offer a full day of age-specific presentations for grades 1st to 12th, focused on what it means to be an author & publisher and creating stories.

Visits can include: Lunch with students, book signings, contest judging, classroom drop-ins, and individual classroom presentations and discussions.

In addition, free lesson plans with projects to extend the visit are included.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Hannah Staley-Foster is an illustrator and content creator who specializes in bright, cheerful, and usually nature or animal-focused art. Primarily a digital artist, she also runs a YouTube channel where she shares her work and process; in addition, Hannah loves to share her work at conventions and art shows. Hannah is eager to continue to use her art to share uplifting messages and add light to the world.

Review Quotes

In the Redwood Forest, an unlikely friendship blossoms when a Redwood tree encounters a Bay Laurel sprout and, against all his Redwood friends' wishes, helps Laurel thrive in the forest. Big Red is determined to help Laurel grow, and the tree even sacrifices some of its branches to allow the sun to reach Laurel. Accompanied by beautiful illustrations drawn by Hanna Staley-Foster, Laurel and Red is a fantastic children's story that not only talks about friendship and the importance of companionship but also teaches young kids about Laurel's life cycle and other fun facts about Redwood trees. I enjoyed everything about this book; the dialogue was clear, the plot was interesting and engaging, and the illustrations provided a lovely complement to the story. I believe maybe adding more human-like features to Laurel and Big Red would make the book more captivating to young readers. This isn't something that affected my enjoyment of the story, but I mention it considering that this book is meant for a young audience. Overall, Laurel and Red by Kelley M. Likes, illustrated by Hanna Staley-Foster is a great read for kids who are interested in trees and forests. I consider it a lovely bedtime story for children ages 5 and up. I recommend you read it and enjoy a peaceful time with your kid.

-eBookFairs

An avid plant lover that I am, the very engaging story of Laurel and Red caught my interest as soon as I opened it. Starting from the lively illustrations to its moving narrative, this book left an impression on me. I like the idea of trees and plants talking, like Laurel and Red, I find imagination in talking to my garden plants. The book's storyline touches on when other trees prevent Red from talking with young and new Laurel. Even, they prevent Red from talking with Laurel. To this end, Laurel's unconditional support to Red during the storm proves true friendship. Children will love reading this book, while teachers can use it as an educational resource. It aims at making children understand the value of trees and nature itself. One of my favorite scenes in the book is when Red kindly gives way so that there is some sunshine for Laurel after she requests him to do so. This gesture shows how much compassion means to people as well as those who require help. Also, the scene where loses a branch just so that Laurel could remain green is equally powerful because it shows how important it is to be.

-eBookFairs