Do Trees Have Mothers?

In the last several years, there has been much written and broadcast about how trees communicate. This sweet picture book is told to readers by a cute little squirrel named Nuts, who is present to explain to youngsters just how tree mothers can communicate with and help to care for their children, the seedlings that surround the mother tree.

Trees communicate through their roots. When the seedlings need more water, they can signal the mother tree to send more to them. The mother trees can signal the seedlings when there are insects that might be a problem for them. Trees cleanse the water and air around them, making for a healthier environment for the seedlings and the rest of us.

Author and illustrator Charles Bongers tells the story in an engaging but straightforward manner that suits the subject manner. The illustrations are all done in soft, gentle colors that support the information but with a sense of whimsy and fun. Nuts, the story-telling squirrel, is cute and will elicit giggles from youngsters listening to the book. This is a great introduction to the scientific theories of tree communication and should arouse curiosity in little ones.