Starred Review First Second's Science Comics series shows no sign of slowing down, especially if this robust, fascinating installment is any indication. An inquisitive acorn is the star of this comic, and he's not sure he really wants to be a boring old tree. But a bevy of helpful forest denizens frog, fern frond, termite, squirrel, woodpecker, and mushroom lp him realize that trees are important, powerful, and not at all boring. Using clearly explained technical language, Hirsch covers a wide variety of topics, including tropism, tree structure, biodiversity, and symbiotic relationships, all made accessible by the engaging format and joke-heavy dialogue among the characters. The cheery, gap-toothed cartoon acorn is a genial, inviting guide through the concepts, and Hirsch's crisp, dynamic, full-­color artwork as well as loads of helpful diagrams do a fantastic job of visualizing the engrossing science. Lots of concrete ­examples g wasps, quaking aspens, and redwood forests, among others lp demonstrate the concepts at work even more. Trees are amazing plants ey even communicate with each other, thanks to a vast network of fungi that link forests ­together d Hirsch's playful, enthusiastic tone makes that unmistakably clear. It's hard not to see the wonder in this dense, pithy comic, and kids who are under the misapprehension that trees are boring will quickly learn otherwise.

Gr 4-8 A newly fallen acorn is having doubts about becoming a tree, declaring that staying in one place like a statue is lonely and boring. But when a variety of woodland fauna and flora edify the young acorn about the dynamic functions of trees, he changes his mind. The details and vocabulary make this much more than a simple introductory book on the topic. Hirsch extensively covers various plant systems, trees' relationships with other life-forms, and how the environment and climate affect trees. The comic format is engaging and the artwork colorful and fun. Children will develop a deeper appreciation for and understanding of trees' important role in the planet's ecology and why their protection and survival are critical to a healthy world. VERDICT Another winner in the series, this title is an excellent addition to most libraries. Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA