Leaf & the Rushing Waters

Leaf and the Rushing Waters is the first of an environmental series about twig creatures who live in the natural world, bravely surviving the disasters that threaten their home. Leaf, the mischievous yet lovable, main character discovers that the tree where he lives is in danger of being flooded by the Rushing Waters, a nearby river. With the help of his bold (if not rather over-confident) friend Rustle, his friend Feather, and the other creatures who inhabit the woods, he embarks on a journey to find the Goliath beavers, or Chompers, who are their only hope for saving their beloved forest.

Marshall’s whimsical tale is brilliantly conjured. Both its characters and winding plot tell a good story and a lesson well taught. Leaf is a sparkling, likable protagonist and will win over the hearts of his readers. The environment around him is beautifully described and will engage young readers, as well as inform them. Accompanied by the lively illustrations and a detailed map, courtesy of the award-winning D.W. Murray, this philanthropic novel should not be missed, nor should its sequels.