In the magical Redwood Forest, Laurel, a little Bay Laurel tree, forms an unlikely friendship with Red, a towering Redwood tree. The other Redwoods disapprove, but when a storm hits, Laurel's roots prove crucial in supporting Red. Through bravery and friendship, they weather the storm and learn that unity is the true strength of the forest.
Targeted for children ages 6-8, this book offers an inside look into the secret life of trees.
From writer Kelley M Likes and illustrator Hannah Staley-Foster comes a heartwarming tale for young readers about standing together in the face of challenges.
Kids ages: 6, 7, and 8
Grade Level: 1st and 2nd
Early/Transitional Reader
Lexile Level 480L
heartwarming forest tale of unity
teamwork and bravery in the Redwood Forest
SEL picture book about friendship and roots
perfect for Earth Day or Arbor Day storytime
learning to stand strong together
beautifully illustrated nature friendship story
great for school libraries and classrooms
early reader environmental awareness book
exploring the unseen strength of trees
Free Lesson Plans & Storytime Videos at www.likespublishing.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kelley M Likes is an award-winning children's author, publisher, and former T6 Certified educator who creates stories that inspire curiosity and kindness, build confidence, creativity, and resilience. Her books range from humorous picture books and beginning readers to social-emotional learning stories that help children navigate real-life challenges.
Her growing catalog includes titles such as Panic and the Happy Thought, The Pumpkin Who Stayed for Christmas, Quest for the Momma Violin, Snout, Ben Wise and the Purple Dragon, and the Mat early reader series.
As founder of Likes Publishing, Kelley is dedicated to producing high-quality books that inspire a lifelong love of reading while helping children navigate friendship, emotions, creativity, and personal growth.
A mini-stroke survivor, brain tumor host, and lifelong storyteller, Kelley believes books can help children see the world, and themselves, in new ways. When she's not writing, Kelley enjoys encouraging young writers, speaking to students about the publishing process, and helping aspiring authors bring their own stories to life.
EDUCATION:
Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) in Media and Technology
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Business Education
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business Administration
Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Marketing and Management
MEMBER:
SCBWI
Storyteller Academy
The Authors Guild
IBPA Independent Book Publishers Association
Book an Author
Alliance of Independent Authors
AUTHOR VISITS
I offer a full day of age-specific presentations for grades 1st to 12th, focused on what it means to be an author & publisher and creating stories.
Visits can include: Lunch with students, book signings, contest judging, classroom drop-ins, and individual classroom presentations and discussions.
In addition, free lesson plans with projects to extend the visit are included.
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Hannah Staley-Foster is an illustrator and content creator who specializes in bright, cheerful, and usually nature or animal-focused art. Primarily a digital artist, she also runs a YouTube channel where she shares her work and process; in addition, Hannah loves to share her work at conventions and art shows. Hannah is eager to continue to use her art to share uplifting messages and add light to the world.