World

A powerful fable paying homage to the magnificent ‘world’ of a single tree and lamenting the perils of urbanisation and consumerism through the growing wisdom of the main character. The aesthetic qualities of the written prose, initially relying heavily on direct speech and later including the narrator’s observations, is highly appropriate to place, character and mood.

The evocative illustrations rendered in earthy and dark tones show texture and movement and skilfully complement the somewhat sombre tone of the narrative. The effective synergy between the lyrical text and the illustrations stimulates reflection of the significance of trees. The inclusion of information at the end of the book about different types of trees, and the species that inhabit them, provides a useful launching point for readers wishing to explore further.