'Realistic, delicate paintings use pattern, light and soft colors to track nature's transformation of the old oak tree during a single year in an innocent style reminiscent of Barbara Cooney. Simplified natural details of individual plants, birds and animals invite close inspection, while holistic scenes of the oak evoke an idyllic seasonal atmosphere. A charming celebration of the changing seasons.'

-- Kirkus Review

'This is an exquisite work of art with a timeless quality ... A must for all libraries and schools.'

-- Carousel

 

'Unpredictable, stimulating and ultimately confidence-inducing ... Gerda Muller, whose work may be familiar from her other nature-imbued children's books ('Goldilocks and the Three Bears', 'Where Do They Go When It Rains?'), draws each activity and animal with great detail and attention. Leaf shapes are accurate, and the picture of the children making their hideout from sticks and leaves is as good as a scouting manual; for readers with access to woods this could prove to be a useful as well as a handsome book.'

-- The New York Times.com

 

'A must for every child's library and for any teacher looking for fictional works to support environmental education in the early years.'

-- UK National Association for Environmental Education

 

'With gorgeous illustrations and an engaging story, Gerda Muller takes us into a forest where we get to be a part of Great Oak's magical world for a little while. Young readers will appreciate the simple adventures that the children have in autumn, winter, spring and summer when they visit the tree.'

-- Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews