Once Upon a Tree…

As the mom of a preschooler, I read A LOT of children’s books. And as an employee at the Arbor Day Foundation, I find great joy in the number of children’s books that use trees as a central part of the story.

In celebration of Children’s Book Week, here’s a list of my top 5 favorite tree-loving children’s books.

Where the Wild Things Are

Yes, yes, I know it’s about Max and his Wild Things. But in his room a forest grew…and grew…and grew. And my son and I smile in delight every time.

The Giving Tree

This Shel Silverstein classic has been loved by children for more than 50 years. I was glad when this became a frequently requested read in our house. (I am also glad that he keeps telling the little boy in the story to say thank you.)

The Complete Tales of Winnie-the-Pooh

The Hundred Acre Wood is the scene for story after story of Pooh’s adventures with his friends. The author gathered his inspiration for the setting from Ashdown Forest just outside of London. Someday I’d like to visit—I hear you can play Poohsticks.

The Lorax

Who doesn’t love the Truffula trees? And the wise words of wisdom at the end are something everyone can learn from. “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

Curious George Plants a Tree

We’re big George fans at our house. He visits the zoo, he goes to a costume party, he finds dinosaur bones, he makes pancakes…so of course he plants a tree!

I limited myself to my most favorite tree-inspired children’s books, but there are SO many more to choose from. Which are your favorite?