What Do You See When You Look At a Tree?

What Do You See When You Look At a Tree? by Emma Carlisle invites readers on a reflective journey through the eyes of a child, encouraging a deeper connection with nature. This beautifully illustrated picture book employs watercolour artwork to evoke the serenity and complexity of trees, prompting young readers to pause and contemplate their surroundings.

The Plot

As the narrative unfolds, the child’s observations lead to profound questions about what lies beyond the visible. Each page turn reveals not just the physical attributes of trees, but also the emotions and thoughts they inspire. The story encourages readers to think critically about their environment and their relationship with it, making it a perfect catalyst for discussions about empathy and mindfulness.

Themes

• Connection to Nature: A celebration of the natural world and our place within it.
• Mindfulness: Encouraging readers to be present and aware of their surroundings.
• Personal Growth: Promoting self-reflection and the exploration of one’s feelings.

The incorporation of thought-provoking questions throughout the text enhances its educational value, making it an engaging read for both children and adults alike. Fans of The Curious Garden by Peter Brown or Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv will find resonance in the themes explored within this work.

“A gentle reminder of the beauty that surrounds us, waiting to be noticed.”