What Do You See When You Look At a Tree?

This book is a stunning celebration of all things tree and we loved it. The rich and evocative illustrations have been created using a beautiful matte palette which really brings each page to life with autumnal warmth and summer shine.

The words, which rhyme for the most part, are kept minimal; along with the gorgeous illustrations, Emma Carlisle deftly takes us on a reflective and respectful journey. We follow a lovely little girl as she interacts with the different environments that feature in her world. We see snapshots of her relationships with family members unfolding under the shade of the trees which provide the elegant framework of each scene. Trees are in many ways the shape of our landscapes and Carlisle encourages the reader to consider their own relationships with the trees that form such an important part of our daily lives. She captures the aesthetics of the changing seasons and explores the diverse forms of trees. She shows trees as habitats for animals, microcosms of life, and as having a particular affinity with children, capturing something special in the young imagination.

Our favourite section was at the back of the book where we learnt about the wood world web and how trees communicate with one another through their root systems. We also loved the pages on 'How to be more like a tree' which gives invaluable advice for us all such as 'Spread your roots' and 'Take your time'.

This is a beautiful, must-read picture book for any nature lovers, and aspiring artists. It will undoubtedly provoke many warm, wonderful moments shared between parent and child as we marvel at the abundant variety and spectacular beauty of the trees which thankfully, grace and enrich our world.

-- Stephanie Robertson * Armadillo Magazine *
What Do You See When You Look At A Tree? by Emma Carlisle (Big Picture) is a special book about something very dear to our hearts - trees! Created in association with the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, this gorgeous volume will make you think about nature in new ways! * Storytime Magazine *
With Emma Carlisle's gorgeous watercolour illustrations, this book urges children to reconnect with nature by asking questions that encourage reflection and self-awareness - a gentle delight. * BBC Countryfile Magazine *
This is a very thoughtful book, which tunes into the presences of trees as part of our society and our day to day....mindful narrative characterises the book, and as you read you become to embody this mindfulness. This mindfulness is beautifully expressed through the rhyming nature of the book, as well as the delicate and heart-warming illustrations. * Angelica Celinska, Early Years Educator *
'It's a perfect read for sleep time and sure to become a well-thumbed favourite. * BBC Wildli