(I could see this book inspiring many well-intentioned young readers to plant a tree but I think it would be potentially problematic and disruptive to the natural environment if individuals just plant trees in national/state parks at will.) I'm hoping someone knowledgeable about this will post a comment. The duo in this book appears to be very respectful of nature (the child has even read a book about how to plant trees) but I think a brief note at the end of the book would be helpful to explain that we shouldn't just walk into a wild space and plant a tree and what agencies to contact for help.

do the actual planting or that there may be a select few tree planting events. (I suppose it is possible the child and his/her father are hiking on private land, but it appears quite extensive to be private.) I looked online and found that there are ways to plant memorial trees or celebration trees in certain parks, but I believe that the individual simply makes a monetary donation and then Arbor Day Foundation etc. I was confused about one point as I was under the impression that individuals are not allowed to plant trees in national or state parks though this book seems to show the father and child doing that. you see that the parent-child tradition of going on a hike and planting a tree together has been done for generations. The final illustration of the father and child looking at the family photo album is so touching. (Also, might I say, one of the cutest orange tabby cats I've seen in picture books in quite some time, and I do love orange tabby cats!) Love the parent-child bonding, exploring and appreciating nature.

The details are absolutely wonderful - so much to notice on the first read, then even more to appreciate the second time through.

On the surface, it's an exuberant story of a father and child on a hike. Wow! This is (nearly) wordless picture book beautiful and touching on so many levels.

Pete oswald hike