The Big TreePaperback, 20 June 2023

How do you cheer up a friend?

Kittens Max, Cantaloupe, and Melon love the Big Tree. In spring, they climb it. In summer, they stargaze on it. In autumn, they play in its leaves. It's always been there.

But now the Big Tree is sick. Really sick. And Melon and Cantaloupe's parents have to cut it down.

Max is sad to lose the Big Tree, but he's even sadder for his friends. The Big Tree was in their yard for their whole lives--it was their friend. More than anything, Max wants to cheer them up. He thinks about it and thinks about it, and finally it comes to him: with some allowance money, some elbow grease, and a lot of beautiful potted plants, he can help them grow new and beautiful flowers in their sunny backyard!

A sensitive and age-appropriate story about loss, friendship, and the power of kindness, THE BIG TREE is a perfect text for teaching beginning readers emotional intelligence, change acceptance, and the value of positive action. A touching and brightly drawn beginner comic from Ignatz Nominee Laura Knetzger, THE BIG TREE is heartfelt, tender, and warm.