Can You Hear the Trees Talking?: Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest

Gr 3-5--This young readers edition offers middle grade readers a chance to explore the wonders of the forest. The author explains the complex interactions that allow trees to communicate with and protect one another, feel fear, and show bravery. Under ideal conditions, trees in forests form families and devise methods to ensure the long life and survival of their species. Wohlleben introduces the basic science behind how trees work, how they make babies, who are their friends and enemies, and what it takes to survive storms, infestations, and droughts. Using terms like mothers, babies, and schools and describing the trees as having emotions such as fear and longing, the author anthropomorphizes trees' relationships with one another and with the animal kingdom. Although unusual, this format makes for easier comprehension of a complex subject matter and emphasizes the necessity of respecting trees and preserving forests. There is no mention of climate change and the future effects of global warming on trees and forests. VERDICT With many illustrations, sidebars, quizzes, and projects this is an outstanding introduction into the world of trees. Highly recommended for students of science, environment, and ecology.--Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, formerly at Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

In his debut title for youth, Wohlleben, the German author of the bestselling adult title The Hidden Life of Trees, presents a beautifully laid-out walk through the forest with a kindly guide, who points out fascinating sights and intriguing phenomena. Each chapter, from "How Trees Work" to "A Year in the Forest," is divided into four related questions, such as "How do trees breathe?" and "Why don't trees fall over?" Answers are explained in colorful two-page spreads, which also include one or two special sections that highlight a forest feature, suggest a hands-on activity, or challenge readers with a brief quiz. Slight anthropomorphizing ("Maybe you'll be the one to discover whether trees dream!") puts the reader into a closer relationship with trees, as do comparisons between forest elements and familiar things, such as how root systems can work like the internet. In addition to trees, Wohlleben covers other forest plants and animals, climate, and the four seasons. Captivating, close-up photos illuminate the engaging text, making this both a superb classroom resource and a strong choice for young browsers. Ages 8-10. (Oct.)

"A forest's worth of appealing sidebars, pop-up quizzes with fascinating statistics, and colorful photographs add to a strong subtext: Forest preservation is not just important, but imperative. A tree-treatise treat."
—Kirkus (Starred Review ★)

[Can You Hear the Trees Talking?] is an outstanding introduction into the world of trees. Highly recommended for students of science, environment, and ecology.
—School Library Journal(Starred Review ★)

"As fascinating and relaxing as a stroll through the woods."
—Booklist

"[Can You Hear the Trees Talking] presentsa beautifully laid-out walk through the forest with a kindly guide, who points out fascinating sights and intriguing phenomena. Captivating, close-up photos illuminate the engaging text, making this both a superb classroom resource and a strong choice for young browsers."
—Publishers Weekly

"Can You Hear the Trees Talking? is a fantastic and accessible version of his bestselling The Hidden Life of Trees. [Wohlleben] poses a series of basic questions for his readers—can trees talk, are trees brave, do trees sleep at night, how do trees know when it's spring—and offers them his unique knowledge and shares his passion for trees, wonderful photographs of his forest and fun quizzes and simple activities."
—The Globe and Mail

"Curious kids will eat this one up, because it's full of facts!"
—Romper

"[Peter Wohlleben's] dedication, knowledge, and passion come through on every page of this book. Filled with whimsy, information, and activities, this book is a delight for children of all ages! "
—Powell's Books

"A delightful way to introduce children to the wonders of the trees and to the world of the forest....Any child who is curious about nature would love Can You Hear the Trees Talking?, and it would make a great book for family activities as well as for use in a traditional or homeschool curriculum."
— Beth Fish Reads

"Kid-friendly... could embraced by a science teacher for use in the class."
—Kiss the Book Jr.

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Hidden Life of Trees.

"Children were talking with trees for centuries before scientists proved that trees communicate. What better guide to kids' conversation with our leafy neighbors than Peter Wohlleben, who revealed to adults the hidden lives of trees? This splendid book is bursting with exciting science. Better yet, Can You Hear The Trees Talking? fosters reverence and wonder for a forest far more magical than even fairy-tales claim."
—Sy Montgomery, New York Times bestselling author and recipient of the Sibert Medal