We're Off to the Forest

Selected for The Children’s Book Council’s September 2024 “Hot Off The Press” Reading List

"You can always tell an import from its squirrels. I recently learned that the red squirrel, so beloved of European children’s books, has been threatened in the past by the invading ??? squirrels so commonly found in America. You won’t learn anything about that in this particular book, of course. I just think it’s kind of a neat fact. In this story, a squirrel son and dad try to find a favorite acorn that they buried. And along the way you get a peek into the interconnectedness of forest ecosystems. So that’s neat." —Betsy Bird, School Library Journal

"Amidst the rustling leaves and chilling air, a heartwarming story emerges, revealing the extraordinary in the ordinary and how even the smallest things can weave magic into the vast world. Critique: "We're Off to the Forest" is a heartwarming addition to storyteller and artist Katarina Macurova's 'Small Wonders' picture book series, and enchantingly enhanced by artist/illustrator Katarina Macurova. This hardcover edition from Albatros Media is a fun and original story tht includes valuable lessons for young minds, all while making it a delightful exploration of nature's wonders for small children. Simply stated, "We're Off to the Forest" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library picture book collectoins for children ages 3-6." —Midwest Book Review - Children's Bookwatch

"With vivid illustrations bursting with the beautiful reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn, this book is a delight. This heartwarming picture book is a story about a father and son and their special traditions. Themes of family, sharing, and the importance of patience are all strong throughout the book. It is a wholesome and enchanting story with simple language that is perfect for younger readers. I found that the full-page illustrations were detailed and striking. These illustrations feature many adorable animals that come to life on the page. WE'RE OFF TO THE FOREST shows that even the smallest pleasures can have big impacts, and make the best memories." —Georgie Bartlett, YA Books Central

"These topics will help read-aloud adults engage the very young in early ideas of conservation and environmental change. The first-person discussions of the young squirrel impart new discoveries about personal responsibility for the environment... even a small segment that the squirrels impact by their choices and actions. This appealing story and its colorful pages of a parent and child's shared interests and involvements is especially highly recommended for adults seeking to spark beginning discussions about conservation and personal responsibility. Within this bigger picture is a gentle story of a father/son experience that will delight those seeking uplifting, supportive stories of family connections, making We're Off to the Forest a winning choice on many different levels." —Midwest Book Review - Children's Bookwatch

"This appears to be a simple picture book, but there’s actually quite a lot of depth to the message of community and ecology. The promise of trees to provide for future generations is celebrated in a way that every reader will understand and enjoy. Highly recommended!" —Laura Gardner, Youth Services Book Review

"Beautiful, beautiful artwork with a conservation message!" —Imagination Soup Blog

"Beautiful illustrations and wonderful story about the cycle of life in the forest." —Lindsay G., NetGalley-Reviewer

"This was a very cute and interesting story that held the attention of my littles. The illustrations were bright and entertaining. They stayed on track with the story and helped little minds grasp the concepts." —Ray Layne, NetGalley-Reviewer

"I loved the illustrations! They were so detailed and colorful. The story was sweet and teaches young children that planting an acorn can form an Oak tree." —Callie F., NetGalley-Reviewer