Description
Owl is flying home with a full belly to the Old Oak in the forest. After Owl tucks away in her hole in the Old Oak, she feels a pop and a tremble. She flies out as the Old Oak falls. After 400 years in the forest, Old Oak has reached the end of its life. Squirrels, moths, butterflies, rabbits, deer, bear, possums, and more gather to give thanks for all Old Oak has given them through the years. Old Oak provided food, shade, homes, and protection to so many of the forest creatures. But old Oak isn’t quite through with its work. It will still provide homes for some animals and insects while it slowly decomposes, adding needed nutrients to the soil for the growth of future oak trees.
Britt Crow-Miller has written a lovely story of the importance of oak trees to the ecosystem. Her lyrical language will draw young readers and listeners into the book and hold their attention to the end. Five pages of excellent back-matter support the story with factual information. The delightful illustrations by Amy Schimler-Safford use paint and collage to complete the story with surprising details. Do not miss this wonderful book.
