One Day This Tree Will Fall Perfect Picture Book Friday

 A thoughtful exploration of the life, death, and life-after-death of a Douglas fir.

text copyright Leslie Barnard Booth, 2024, illustrations copyright Stephanie Fizer Coleman, 2024, Margaret K. McElderry Books

As beautifully written as it is illustrated, this thought-provoking picture book will challenge readers to consider all the ways trees contribute to their environment, at all the stages of life. Young learners are often familiar with seeds, saplings, and younger trees, but decaying, dying, and dead trees are just as important--and their impact goes far beyond what is often understood. Even in their death, trees provide food, shelter, and nutrients to other living things. 

The lyrical text and captivating illustrations are enhanced by the informative back matter that clearly details the various stages of a tree's life. It also provides a brief explanation of the relationship between people and trees, a glossary of terms young learners may be unfamiliar with, and a source list for further study. This book would make a beautiful addition to a library's arboreal list, an instructive complement to a classroom unit on trees, or a perfect excuse to snuggle up and read aloud at home.

Title:  ONE DAY THIS TREE WILL FALL

Author:  Leslie Barnard Booth

Illustrator:  Stephanie Fizer Coleman

Publisher:  Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2024

Age:  3-8

Themes:  Natural world, Life cycle of trees, Perseverance, Death, Hope 

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Investigate trees in your area. Do you observe any signs of life--nests, insects, or animals--in the tree?  Do you notice any signs of decay? Did you see any wounds? Draw a picture or write about what you observed. 
• Pair with Hannah Barnaby's The Pine Cone's Secret (Sourcebooks Explore, 2025).
• ​​For extension activities, lesson plans, and more, check out the author's website.
• Conversation starters: "What did you learn about trees from this book?" "If you were a tree, which creatures would you want to shelter in your branches or in your trunk?" 

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!