Little Tree and the Wood Wide Web
What’s inside...
The story follows the journey of Little Tree, a young sapling in a vast forest who discovers the interconnectedness of all plant life through a hidden network beneath the soil, often referred to as the 'Wood Wide Web'. As Little Tree grows, it learns about cooperation, the cycles of nature, and the importance of the ecosystem. In this children's picture book, a lonely fir tree sapling stretches her leaves in a forest full of huge, ancient trees. Feeling isolated and unable to access light or water, her worries travel via her roots, which are connected to the 'wood wide web'. The fungal network spreads her message throughout the forest, eventually reaching a kind paper birch tree that helps her in her time of need. As they exchange help through the seasons, Little Tree learns the value of community and discovers she is never alone. The forest's strength relies on every tree, no matter the size, communicating and supporting each other through a network that allows them to share resources, warnings, and even care for one another.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Little Tree felt when he first discovered the Wood Wide Web?
What are some ways that the trees in the story help each other?
Why is it important for us to take care of nature, just like the characters in the book?
If you were a part of the Wood Wide Web, how would you help the other trees and plants?
What did you learn about how trees communicate and live together?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they know about forests and trees, and build on their existing knowledge.
While reading, pause at key moments to explore your child’s feelings and thoughts on the events occurring in the story.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the cooperation among the trees and how people work together in their communities.
After finishing the book, engage in an activity together such as planting a tree or making a nature scrapbook, to reinforce the themes from the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Little Tree and the Wood Wide Web', Little Tree learns to work together with the other trees and creatures of the forest to solve common problems.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities at school or in play, learning to cooperate and value each team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Valuing diversity
Explanation: Throughout the story, Little Tree discovers that each type of tree and animal in the forest has its unique role and strength, promoting an appreciation for diversity.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and appreciate the differences among people in their community and learn to respect and celebrate these differences.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: The protagonist, Little Tree, encounters various challenges in the forest but learns to overcome them with the help of friends.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to persist in the face of difficulties, whether it's learning a new skill or dealing with common childhood challenges.
Example Lesson: The significance of communication
Explanation: Communication between the forest inhabitants is crucial in the story as it helps them share vital information and look out for each other.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their thoughts and feelings clearly and listen to others, which is vital for effective communication in social interactions and teamwork.
Example Lesson: Caring for the environment
Explanation: Little Tree learns about the interdependence among forest beings and the importance of taking care of their environment.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in environmentally friendly practices such as recycling, conserving water, and planting trees.