The Sequoia Lives on - by Joanna Cooke (Hardcover)

About the Book

From tiny seed to largest tree, the giant sequoia is a living wonder of nature. In evocative text and vibrant paintings, this picture book shares the life story of the giant sequoia. Includes an Author's Note. Full color..

Book Synopsis

This book shares the life story of the giant sequoia, casting light on natural questions: How does this tree grow so big? How does it live so long?
From tiny seed to world's largest tree, the giant sequoia is a living wonder of nature. This ancient and tremendous species grows naturally only on the western slopes of California's Sierra Nevada. Each sequoia begins life as a seed no larger than an oatmeal flake--yet can grow as tall as three blue whales stacked chin to tale. The oldest sequoias have lived as long as forty human lifetimes. The largest are so enormous, twenty children holding hands can't wrap their arms around the trunks! In evocative text and vibrant paintings, The Sequoia Lives On reveals all of this fascinating information and more. An extensive author's note completes the portrait for young readers, inviting them to become the next generation of protectors for this amazing tree.

Review Quotes

Starred Review, Kirkus Reviews:
"As narrator, Cooke speaks with earnestness and clarity while employing language and syntax that are poetic and filled with obvious love of these giants. Hsieh's double-page-spread illustrations, done in gorgeous tones of browns, yellows, and greens, add a dreamlike element.... Informative and breathtakingly beautiful." June 1, 2018
School Library Journal:
"A feast for the eyes and ears, this tribute to the sequoia offers Hsieh's gorgeous painterly illustrations and Cooke's figurative language, well suited to the age of the intended audience. . . . Informative and lyrical, the main story abounds with intriguing facts, but those still seeking additional information can satisfy their curiosity with back matter that is sufficiently substantial for note-taking. VERDICT Inspiring and highly recommended for nonfiction collections and nature lovers." September 1, 2018

About the Author

Joanna Cooke is a writer who spent ten years living in the Sierra, working as an environmental educator and National Park Service Ranger in Yosemite National Park. Fiona Hsieh specializes in painting animals and lush, atmospheric landscapes for animated movies and picture books.