There are so many fantastic kids’ books about trees out there!
These children’s books explore all aspects of a tree’s life from various perspectives, helping children appreciate a tree’s place in the environment.
1. Arbor Day Square by Kathryn O. Galbraith
“Arbor Day Square” by Kathryn O. Galbraith follows a community’s journey to transform a barren plot of land into a vibrant park in honor of Arbor Day.
Led by a determined young girl named Katie, the townspeople work together to plant trees, creating a lush green space that brings joy to all.
They showcase the importance of environmental stewardship and community involvement in preserving nature through teamwork and dedication.
2. The Giving Tree Hardcover by Shel Silverstein
“The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein tells the story of a tree’s lifelong relationship with a boy, who grows up and continually takes from the tree until nothing is left but a stump.
Despite the tree’s sacrifices, the story reflects themes of unconditional love, selflessness, and the consequences of exploitation, leaving readers with profound reflections on the nature of giving and receiving.
With its simple yet powerful narrative and evocative illustrations, the book remains a timeless classic that sparks contemplation about human relationships and our connection to nature.
3. The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
“The Lorax” by Dr. Seuss is an environmental fable that warns against the dangers of unchecked industrialization and deforestation.
Through the tale of the Once-ler and the Lorax, who speaks for the trees, Dr. Seuss imparts a powerful message about the importance of conservation and the devastating consequences of greed and exploitation.
The book’s whimsical characters and vibrant illustrations engage young readers while conveying a timeless lesson about environmental stewardship and the need to protect our natural world.
4. The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle
“The Tiny Seed” by Eric Carle follows the journey of a tiny seed as it travels through the seasons, facing various challenges and obstacles along the way.
Despite its small size, the seed perseveres, eventually growing into a beautiful flower, demonstrating nature’s resilience and growth potential.
Through vibrant collage illustrations and simple text, Carle highlights the life cycle of plants and the wonder of the natural world, captivating young readers with its beauty and message of hope.
5. The Great Kapok Tree by Lynne Cherry
“The Great Kapok Tree” by Lynne Cherry is set in the Amazon rainforest, where a man falls asleep under a giant kapok tree. As he sleeps, various animals approach him to share the importance of preserving the rainforest.
Through their stories, the man learns about the interconnectedness of all living things and the devastating consequences of deforestation. The book conveys a powerful message about conservation and the need to protect our planet’s diverse ecosystems.
6. A Walk Through the Woods by Louise Greig
“A Walk Through the Woods” by Louise Greig follows a young girl named Izzy and her father as they stroll through the forest, encountering various sights and sounds.
As they explore, Izzy learns valuable lessons about the beauty of nature, the importance of imagination, and the bond between parent and child.
With lyrical prose and enchanting illustrations, the book celebrates the wonders of the natural world and the joy of spending time outdoors.
7. The Tree Book for Kids and Their Grown-Ups by Gina Ingoglia
“The Tree Book for Kids and Their Grown-Ups” by Gina Ingoglia is an informative guide that introduces children and adults to the fascinating world of trees.
Through engaging text and colorful illustrations, the book covers various topics such as tree identification, parts of a tree, and their importance in ecosystems.
Fun facts and hands-on activities encourage readers to explore and appreciate the beauty and significance of trees in our environment.
8. Our Tree Named Steve by Alan Zweibel
“Our Tree Named Steve” by Alan Zweibel tells the heartwarming story of a family’s special bond with a beloved tree named Steve.
Through the ups and downs of life, Steve stands as a steadfast companion, witnessing the family’s milestones and providing comfort and support.
The book celebrates the enduring connections formed with nature and the memories shared under the shade of a cherished tree with humor and warmth.
9. Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf by Lois Ehlert
“Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf” by Lois Ehlert is a beautifully illustrated picture book that explores the life cycle of a maple tree through the seasons.
Using collage art and simple text, Ehlert introduces readers to the various parts of the tree and its changes from spring to winter.
Through vibrant imagery and engaging storytelling, the book celebrates the wonders of nature and encourages curiosity about the world around us.
10. The Tree Farmer by Chuck Leavell and Nicholas Cravotta
“The Tree Farmer” by Chuck Leavell and Nicholas Cravotta follows the story of a boy named Charles who learns about sustainable forestry from his grandfather, a tree farmer.
As Charles grows up, he discovers the importance of caring for the land and planting trees for future generations.
Through colorful illustrations and a heartfelt narrative, the book highlights the value of environmental stewardship and the legacy of responsible forestry practices.
Picture Books About Trees
All of these tree-focused picture books come highly recommended. Most are suitable for preschoolers and children of other ages.
Whether for Arbor Day, Lawn and Garden Month, or another natural world-focused holiday, read books with your kids that will inspire and educate them.
Along the same lines as this list, check out these fun children’s books about strawberries!
