The Faraway Seed

Ages 4 to 8 years. This lovely little story is about a "perfect" forest that grew tall and proud on the land. The forest had a "sameness" about it that appeared comfortable until one day a bird from a faraway place flew over the forest and dropped a seed. The seed took root and a sapling grew and against all odds and adversity the tree grew tall and full and lush -- it did not look like the other trees, it was not a forest tree. The other trees in the forest didn't like this "difference" and tried to block the tree's growth. When the strange new tree continued to grow with beauty, eventually covering itself with buds and berries, the forest sighed because the forest wasn't "perfect" anymore. Then suddenly, insects came to feed on the blossoms and hide in the leaves. Birds came to hunt the insects and eat the berries. Some of the berries dropped onto the soft, fertile earth, and more trees grew -- full lush trees with branches flowing, this way and that. Animals came to make their homes in the new trees, and the forest came alive. A real forest of strong, tall trees with silk glossy leaves; fat lush trees with bright yellow blossoms... and life. And the forest was happy! This beautiful book teaches children about the importance of understanding and accepting change and different cultures and how the gifts that other cultures bring to our land can only enrich it.