High in the Tree and Low in the Soil: The mysterious relationship of a Tree and a Seed
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Now in paperback! This colorful and playful book takes readers on an enlightening journey with a seed as it discovers the crucial relationship between itself and the soil. The narrative explores the hidden world beneath the soil, emphasizing its importance in supporting life and maintaining the ecosystem. The book is interactive with various reading modes like I SPY, I OBSERVE, and I FLIP, enhancing the engagement. It also incorporates artwork by children, teaching about visual literacy and the significance of relationships in nature. Perfect for young nature enthusiasts, aspiring artists, and anyone interested in the interconnectedness of life, this book is a delightful read-aloud option for home or school, also suitable for library donations.
Age
3-10
Length
51 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the tree and the seed talk about when no one is around?
How do you think the tree helps the seed grow?
Can you imagine what it would be like to be a seed buried in the soil?
Why do you think the tree and the seed need each other?
What did you learn about how plants and trees grow?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voice tones to mimic the characters of the tree and the seed, making the storytelling lively and engaging.
Encourage your child to draw their version of the tree and the seed interacting, which can spur creativity and a deeper connection to the story.
Pause after key moments in the book to ask your child what they think will happen next or how a character might be feeling, promoting empathy and predictive skills.
Connect the story to real-life observations by pointing out seeds and trees during walks or in your garden, making the book's content tangible.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Interdependence in nature
Explanation: The book explores the symbiotic relationship between the tree and the seed, illustrating how they rely on each other for growth and survival.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of helping and depending on others within their community, promoting cooperation and teamwork.
Example Lesson: The cycle of life
Explanation: Through the growth of the tree from a seed and its eventual return to the soil, the story teaches the natural cycle of life and death in an accessible way.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand and accept the natural endings and beginnings in their own lives, such as moving schools or the passing of a pet.
Example Lesson: Patience and time
Explanation: The narrative shows that the tree doesn’t grow overnight, but takes time and nurturing, emphasizing the virtues of patience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persevere in tasks or hobbies that require time to master, such as learning a musical instrument or a new sport.
Example Lesson: Environmental stewardship
Explanation: As the story highlights the crucial roles trees and seeds play in the ecosystem, it encourages readers to think about their impact on the environment.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to engage in activities that protect and preserve nature, like recycling, gardening, or participating in local clean-up days.