"Nana said unusual friendships can be the most powerful of all.
And deep down in her heart, Britta knew it was true."
Britta's two favourite trees are the apple tree and the magnolia in her garden. Britta is sure these two trees are best friends.
Her father and sister think this is just a silly idea. Luckily Britta has a wise grandmother. One day magnolia starts to look unwell with patchy bark and brown leaves. Britta makes a plan to save the tree but this is not at all the plan you might anticipate.
"She tied a string with two cups so that Apple could hear Magnolia's sighs, and Magnolia could hear Apple's sweet whistling songs. And she wrapped a long scarf between the two trees so they could feel each other's warmth through the cold winter months."
She also hung lights between the two trees so they could see each other on dark nights. Over time the trees appeared to be moving closer together. Britta is a scientist so she tests this theory by taking daily measurements. In Spring blossoms appear on the apple tree. Then suddenly a blossom appears on the Magnolia.
"Trees really can help one another. Trees can send nutrients to each other through a network of fungi in the soil. Trees can send warning signals about environmental change via the same network. Trees can also release a gas into the air to warn other trees of attach by animals or insects." (Author note)
This is a very special book and one that would be a very worthwhile addition to your school library. Check out my Pinterest of Apples in Picture books. If you read the list of labels for this post you can see so many themes here - communication, hope, perseverance, trust, problem solving and the importance of optimism.
What’s not to love about this endearing and effervescent picture book? Kirkus Star review
Here is the web site for Laura Gehl. I would like to also see this book illustrated by Patricia Metola who lives in Spain.
Companion reads to follow Apple and Magnolia:
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