Thank You, Old Oak

PreS-Gr 3–Old Oak has stood in the forest for over 400 years, but one day, she’s just tired and falls to the ground. It’s not the end for Old Oak, but a beginning. The story shows how many forest creatures—squirrels, moths, rabbits, deer, bears, and birds—gather to say thanks for the food and shelter she provided. The story reflects the solemnity of loss while celebrating the nature of the cycle of life. The art is created using mixed media, including oil paints, water-based paints, crayons, and printmaking that depict the forest and mention numerous animals gathering. The illustrations beautifully capture the vibrant ecosystem and Old Oak’s central role in it, bringing the natural world to life for readers. The book is enhanced by excellent end notes that teach readers more about oak trees, such as why they are important, how long they live, how to read tree rings to learn about a tree’s history, what happens to a fallen tree, the decomposition process, and the crucial role of nurse logs. It even highlights the concern about endangered oak species and encourages readers to protect trees. It’s a wonderful resource for teaching children about nature, ecosystems, gratitude, and the importance of conservation, suitable for story time or science lessons.