Can You Hear the Trees Talking?: Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest
Can You Hear the Trees Talking?: Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest
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Publisher's Hardcover ©2019--
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Greystone Books LTD
Annotation: A global advocate for forests and our relationship with trees shares the mysteries and magic of the forest in language kids can understand. Includes quizzes and hands-on activities.
Genre: [Biology]
 
Reviews: 5
Catalog Number: #190844
Format: Publisher's Hardcover
Common Core/STEAM: STEAM STEAM
Copyright Date: 2019
Edition Date: 2019 Release Date: 10/01/19
Pages: 78 pages
ISBN: 1-7716-4434-6
ISBN 13: 978-1-7716-4434-1
Dewey: 582.16
Dimensions: 29 cm
Language: English
Reviews:
Starred Review for Kirkus Reviews

A child-friendly version of the popular adult title The Hidden Life of Trees (2016).There is irony in the idea of revising for children an adult book that boldly challenges the conventional science that keeps humanity strongly detached from the plant kingdom. Indeed, many books for children already deliberately and effectively use terminology of human activities to introduce the vocabulary and rudiments of photosynthesis, and so does this text. The latter word never occurs here, although it states: "Leaves mix water with certain parts of the air to make sugar," and notes the need for light to produce energy. It goes on to describe tree leaves as having thousands of tiny mouths for breathing and later notes that trees don't drink in winter because "you can't drink ice cubes." Intense anthropomorphism continues throughout, with chapters discussing such topics as tree classrooms, mother trees, and how an "annoyed" birch tree will use the wind to whip its branches against an encroaching tree. Occasionally, readers will notice apparent contradictions, unlikely assumptions, and odd duplication, perhaps a result of the reduction. Nevertheless, the book is full of pertinent information, including the importance of fungi to roots and of trees to one another. The author transmits both wonder and fun, even adding tree-themed activities for children to try with willing adults. A forest's worth of appealing sidebars, pop-up quizzes with fascinating statistics, and colorful photographs add to a strong subtext: Forest preservation is not just important, but imperative.A tree-treatise treat. (Nonfiction. 8-12)

School Library Journal Starred Review (Fri Nov 01 00:00:00 CDT 2019)

Gr 3-5 This young readers edition offers middle grade readers a chance to explore the wonders of the forest. The author explains the complex interactions that allow trees to communicate with and protect one another, feel fear, and show bravery. Under ideal conditions, trees in forests form families and devise methods to ensure the long life and survival of their species. Wohlleben introduces the basic science behind how trees work, how they make babies, who are their friends and enemies, and what it takes to survive storms, infestations, and droughts. Using terms like mothers , babies , and schools and describing the trees as having emotions such as fear and longing, the author anthropomorphizes trees' relationships with one another and with the animal kingdom. Although unusual, this format makes for easier comprehension of a complex subject matter and emphasizes the necessity of respecting trees and preserving forests. There is no mention of climate change and the future effects of global warming on trees and forests. VERDICT With many illustrations, sidebars, quizzes, and projects this is an outstanding introduction into the world of trees. Highly recommended for students of science, environment, and ecology. Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, formerly at Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

ALA Booklist (Sun Sep 01 00:00:00 CDT 2019)

In the adaptation of his The Hidden Life of Trees (2016), author and forester Wohlleben invites younger readers to join him on "a journey of discovery," much like the guided forest walks he has long led. His extensive knowledge esumably based largely on experience, as sources are not cited pared down into seven chapters, each of which encompasses a series of questions that kids might ask, including common thoughts about trees as well as more surprising angles: "How Do Trees Breathe?" "Why Don't Trees Fall Over?" "Do Trees Get Pimples?" "What Are Trees Afraid Of?" "Can Forests Make It Rain?" Every question gets its own section that adheres to the same format: two pages of light text are intercut by a few photographs, with a sidebar containing additional tree trivia; a prompt for a simple; illustrative activity; or a quick quiz. The text itself is well tailored to young readers, keeping a conversational tone and using metaphor to make ideas more relatable. As fascinating and relaxing as a stroll through the woods.

Kirkus Reviews (Fri Oct 04 00:00:00 CDT 2024)

A child-friendly version of the popular adult title The Hidden Life of Trees (2016).There is irony in the idea of revising for children an adult book that boldly challenges the conventional science that keeps humanity strongly detached from the plant kingdom. Indeed, many books for children already deliberately and effectively use terminology of human activities to introduce the vocabulary and rudiments of photosynthesis, and so does this text. The latter word never occurs here, although it states: "Leaves mix water with certain parts of the air to make sugar," and notes the need for light to produce energy. It goes on to describe tree leaves as having thousands of tiny mouths for breathing and later notes that trees don't drink in winter because "you can't drink ice cubes." Intense anthropomorphism continues throughout, with chapters discussing such topics as tree classrooms, mother trees, and how an "annoyed" birch tree will use the wind to whip its branches against an encroaching tree. Occasionally, readers will notice apparent contradictions, unlikely assumptions, and odd duplication, perhaps a result of the reduction. Nevertheless, the book is full of pertinent information, including the importance of fungi to roots and of trees to one another. The author transmits both wonder and fun, even adding tree-themed activities for children to try with willing adults. A forest's worth of appealing sidebars, pop-up quizzes with fascinating statistics, and colorful photographs add to a strong subtext: Forest preservation is not just important, but imperative.A tree-treatise treat. (Nonfiction. 8-12)

Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

In his debut title for youth, Wohlleben, the German author of the bestselling adult title The Hidden Life of Trees, presents a beautifully laid-out walk through the forest with a kindly guide, who points out fascinating sights and intriguing phenomena. Each chapter, from -How Trees Work- to -A Year in the Forest,- is divided into four related questions, such as -How do trees breathe?- and -Why don-t trees fall over?- Answers are explained in colorful two-page spreads, which also include one or two special sections that highlight a forest feature, suggest a hands-on activity, or challenge readers with a brief quiz. Slight anthropomorphizing (-Maybe you-ll be the one to discover whether trees dream!-) puts the reader into a closer relationship with trees, as do comparisons between forest elements and familiar things, such as how root systems can work like the internet. In addition to trees, Wohlleben covers other forest plants and animals, climate, and the four seasons. Captivating, close-up photos illuminate the engaging text, making this both a superb classroom resource and a strong choice for young browsers. Ages 8-10. (Oct.)

Reviewing Agencies: - Find Other Reviewed Titles
Starred Review for Kirkus Reviews
School Library Journal Starred Review (Fri Nov 01 00:00:00 CDT 2019)
ALA Booklist (Sun Sep 01 00:00:00 CDT 2019)
Kirkus Reviews (Fri Oct 04 00:00:00 CDT 2024)
Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)
Word Count: 18,122
Reading Level: 5.8
Interest Level: 3-6
Accelerated Reader: reading level: 5.8 / points: 3.0 / quiz: 508064 / grade: Middle Grades
Lexile: 900L

WINNER OF THE AAAS/SUBARU PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE BOOKS BASED ON THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER THE HIDDEN LIFE OF TREES This interactive book for kids aged 8-10 introduces the wonderful science of the forest through outdoor activities, quizzes, fun facts, photographs, and more! Discover the secret life of trees with this nature and science book for kids: Can You Hear the Trees Talking? shares the mysteries and magic of the forest with young readers, revealing what trees feel, how they communicate, and the ways trees take care of their families. The author of The Hidden Life of Trees, Peter Wohlleben, tells kids about the forest internet, aphids who keep ants as pets, nature's water filters, and more fascinating things that happen under the canopy. Featuring simple activities kids can try on their own, along with quizzes, photographs, and more, Can You Hear the Trees Talking? covers a range of amazing topics including: : How trees talk to each other (hint: through the wood wide web!) Why trees are important in the city How trees make us healthy and strong How trees get sick, and how we can help them get better This engaging and visually stunning book encourages at-home learning and fun as kids discover the wonder of the natural world outside their windows. "Lush full-color photos and pictures create an immersive experience and the layout facilitates engaged, delighted learning. ...this book may prompt frequent family visits to, and a new appreciation for, neighborhood trees and local forests."-- Washington Parent


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