Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth

by Rochelle Strauss, Margot Thompson (Illustrator)

If every known species on Earth were a leaf on a tree, that tree would have 1 750 000 leaves. Since humans count for just one leaf on the tree, we have a lot to learn about the millions of other forms of life with which we share the world. A dazzlingly illustrated and child-friendly introduction to biodiversity, Tree of Life shows how living things are classified into five kingdoms -- and how each has much to tell us about all aspects of life on our planet. Tree of Life is part of A collection of books that inform children about the world and inspire them to be better global citizens.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, Picture Books, Childrens, Nature, Biology, Environment

40 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2004

About the author

Create | Engage | Inspire

Rochelle Strauss is on a mission to change the world – one book at a time! She is dedicated to building environmental literacy and inspiring people to become active stewards of our planet. Through her work, she uses compelling storytelling to bring complex environmental issues to life, helping young people better understand the natural world and empowering them to take a positive action. Rochelle’s children’s books have won several awards, been translated globally and incorporated into curriculum in the US. The Global Ocean is a UNESCO endorsed Ocean Decade Activity, and One Well: The Story of Water on Earth was selected as part of the UN’s SDG Book Club in support of SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation. One Well has also sold over half a million copies internationally. Her newest book All the Water on Earth arrives in June 2026.

Reviews

[Manybooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to my Goodreads friend Lisa Vegan for pointing this excellent and expansive science picture book on biology and biodiversity out to me, and indeed, I very much if not even totally agree with Lisa that Rochelle Strauss’ Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth is in many ways and for all intents and purposes a pretty well almost perfect tome for introducing older children and young teenagers to biodiversity and questions of ecology, and with Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth thus being an amazing and very much rewarding educational resource and tool for both at home study and equally elementary and middle school (junior high) science classrooms (although I do have to wonder a bit why Rochelle Strauss has not bothered with providing a list of either books or websites for further reading). But well, even with me wishing that Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth would contain a bibliography, I also strongly do believe that if my own science teachers had made use (or rather if they had had the opportunity to have made use) of books such as (similar to) Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth when biology and biological classifications were being introduced in grade seven science (instead of the rather bone dry and non illustrated textbooks that were being used at the time, in the late 1970s and early 1980s), it would likely have made the latter both a more comprehensible and also a more lastingly enjoyable learning experience for me (and for my fellow students as well, of course). And indeed, the textual information presented by Rochelle Strauss and accompanied by Margot Thompson's richly detailed (as well as realistic) accompanying illustrations for Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth are wonderfully informative (and both words and images feature just enough detail without becoming overwhelming and potentially distracting). However, I also do have to albeit a bit grudgingly admit that part of me wishes that more of the plants and animals described within the text proper were also illustratively depicted (although of course, this could then likely have made Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth a bit too expansive in scope and perhaps even no longer a picture book).

Now the only (and relatively) minor issue I actually do seem to have with the actual text proper of Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth is with how the author (how Rochelle Strauss) has presented the numbers of extant plant and animal species. For in my humble opinion, it would be considerably more accurate to stipulate that the numbers of species listed in Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth are known species, as new species of plants and animals are constantly being discovered. Because not only would this be more precise, it would also further drive home the point that if we decimate our planet with pollution, with global warming, overconsumption, habitat destruction etc. we are not only destroying those species which are known to us, we are also destroying those animal and plant species which are, as yet, unknown to us, thus depriving ourselves (and our descendants) of knowledge, enjoyment and potentially useful and beneficial plants, animals etc. And furthermore, albeit that I generally hugely appreciate that Rochelle Strauss has included in the back matter of Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth many activities a child (no, anyone) can engage in to protect the environment, to protect biodiversity, I have to admit that I was and remain rather astounded by the fact that Strauss has not included in Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth becoming more of a locavore (consuming mostly local produce) and eating a more organic, plant based diet as one of the possibilities (and no, I am not in fact advocating that everyone become a vegetarian or a vegan, but am simply pointing out that vegetarianism and veganism should at least have been included as possible choices and possibilities). For yes, this suggestion would not only greatly expand the scope of Tree of Life: The Incredible Biodiversity of Life on Earth, it would also be a great starting-off point for discussions on how human activity and consumption can often negatively and lastingly affect the environment.

[Lisa Vegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an almost perfect book for learning about biodiversity on earth, if you don’t mind feeling infinitesimal. I loved it! (What I didn’t love is at the end they’re supporting the World Wildlife Fund, an organization I don’t support.) But the book itself is marvelous.

This book very clearly teaches what’s on the tree of life on earth. It starts with the 5 branches (at the moment) of life: monera, fungi, prototista, plants, and animals, and gives examples of different types within each of these, narrowing it down more & more & more. It talks about the interconnectedness of all living things, and shows how and why some are threatened. Best of all, it gives readers ideas of how they can help become good guardians of the ecosystem.

The illustrations are fantastic. As each type of life is described, there’s a tree on each page that shows how many of those leaves (what percentage/proportion) are of that type of life. Readers see that humans, while their impact is great, are really a tiny part of life on earth.

This is the type of science book that will fascinate readers and hopefully make them eager to learn more about the subject.

It’s a gorgeous book with much to view and read; it took me much longer to read this book than I’d ever have expected.

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

The single clearest explanation of the concept of biodiversity, and the "tree of life," that I have ever seen, Rochelle Strauss and Margo Thompson's picture-book introduces readers to the five kingdoms that scientists use to classify life on our planet: Monera, Fungi, Protoctista (Protista), Plants, and Animals. This last is then divided into invertebrates and vertebrates, with the latter further divided into fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. Each of these groupings is given its own two-page spread, with a discussion of those qualities that allow scientists to classify them together, as well as specific examples that highlight their diversity. The interconnectedness of all life is highlighted throughout, and particularly emphasized at the rear, in a section devoted to changes to the tree of life, and challenges facing the natural world.

Densely packed with information, Tree of Life is a picture-book that is really intended for an older audience - upper elementary and middle school students, I would think - and is as engaging as it is educational. I found that I learned quite a bit - I never knew that horseshoe crabs were considered arachnids, for instance, rather than crustaceans! - and appreciated the colorful artwork, with its appealing "crackled" quality. Scientifically-minded young readers, or children interested in the natural world, will find a treasure-trove of information here, and this book is highly recommended to them!

[Krista the Krazy Kataloguer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very clearly organized examination of how life on earth is classified into kingdoms, each of which have a certain number of leaves on a tree representing the Tree of Life. Each 2-page spread describes one of the kingdoms and its defining characteristics, plus a few examples of species within that kingdom. When it gets to the Animal Kingdom, there are spreads for both invertebrates and vertebrates, with the latter broken down again into the 5 sub-groups fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals. Finally, man, who occupies one leaf out of the 1,750,000 leaves on the tree is described with all the characteristics that put him in that kingdom. What I particularly liked was the 2-page spread at the end about how changes to the Tree of Life can put species at risk. It was a fascinating book, and a great introduction to the classification of life for upper elementary and middle school kids. Recommended.

[Dolly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was nominated to be one of the September 2012 - Ecosystems reads at the Picture-Book Club in the Children's Books Group here at Goodreads. It wasn't one of the books selected, but we wanted to read it anyway.

The book breaks down the Tree of Life, as in all living things, in a very understandable and creative way. Each of the five kingdoms is given a branch in the Tree of Life and is explained in a two-page spread. The Animal kingdom is subsequently broken down into more detail.

I love that the size of each group is depicted as a visual representation of the number of leaves it takes on the Tree of Life. It is really humbling to see that humans make up merely one leaf in the tree, out of at least 1,750,000 leaves (species) described. It's amazing to think that there are likely millions more species that we have yet to discover. And it is sad to learn that we lose as many as 27,000 species each year.

Overall, this is an extremely informative book. It offers a lot of detail, so we only read a couple of pages each night so as not to overwhelm our girls with details. We really enjoyed reading through each section, learning more about the striking biodiversity throughout our world. We loved the interesting tidbits of information that helped explain each section and offered an unusual look at just a few of the creatures in our world.

I really liked the section for parents, teachers, and guardians that explains the background and history for the classification system. I was surprised to learn that another kingdom or two may be added in the near future, to include viruses and other living things not suited to the classification system as it stands.

[Jennifer (JenIsNotaBookSnob) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is fairly long, better broken up into separate reading sessions. The illustrations were nice, but, I think for science type books I prefer real photographs. My daughter kept insisting that I find real photographs of the animals in the book. Nicely laid out in a way that makes sense even for younger children. I liked how the tree is used to demonstrate proportionally how much each kingdom of life takes up.

[Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

1) No awards currently
2) 3rd grade and up
3) The tree of life is an illustrated informational text that introduces children to the 5 kingdoms of life on earth. Each kingdom is described and provided with plenty of examples and pictures. The text ends with a section on what readers and parents can do to be the best "guardians of the tree of life they can be".
4) This is a beautifully illustrated text that introduces these 5 major categories of life on Earth in a fun and appealing way that is still dense with information. This book does a wonderful job on note only emphasizing the great variety of life on Earth but also how vital each aspect of life on Earth is for life to continue on Earth, not only a book rich with good information but, with a good message on global citizenship.
5)
a) Going outside after reading and seeing how many different kinds of life we can find. This would be a great way to introduce children to microorganisms if the teacher had available a projectable microscope.
b) Trying to brainstorm and apply as a class, new ways to be guardians of the tree of life.

[Robin Berman]

Beautifully illustrated educational book that explains how life is categorized on our planet Earth.
It describes the 5 kingdoms/branches- Monera, Fungi, Protoctista, Plants, and Animals.
Then it describes Animals invertebrates and vertibrates. Then goes into detail describing the branches of vertibrates- fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals. Then breaks down mammals- placental, marsupial, monotreme. Then goes deeper - primates to humans.
Ends by describing the destruction of life, extinction and loss of habitat. Then encouraging people to do something to protect life and the environment.

[Claire Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect explanation of the biodiversity for the children. This book tells us how important our Tree of Life is. Beautiful illustrations! I used this book for my graduate school for the text project analysis

[Taylor Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

nonfiction

[Auna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A really good book to use in the science portion of an elementary class.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

AN awesome book full of information about the earth and life!!! A good read at any age to start with your kiddos!!

[Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lots of info.

[Dodie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good science book for kids 8 to 12

[Brooke Knee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had a lot to learn about. This book also has many people's favorite animals from many places. I would recommend this book to people interested in animals and the family tree.

[Elodie Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This a good book and it tells you lots of interesting facts, I have learnt a lot. It doesn't take so long to read. I recommend it because I found it really interesting.

[Janice · Rating 2 out of 5]

Might be a good introduction for young students but some of this is outdated.

[Phil Dwyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great resource.

[Annie Adams · Rating 3 out of 5]

Genre: Nonfiction, Concept Book
Awards won: none
Audience: ages 8-12
A. This book discusses biodiversity, ecosystems, and the classification of living things in specific ecosystems.
B. The topic is presented with detailed, colorful illustrations and relatively simple captions and text that would be interesting for a child to read.
C. This book includes diagrams with labels and detailed explanations, illustrations of organisms up close, and captions and labels on illustrations indicating type and classification of living things.
D. This book could be used as a one-on-one reading with a child with autism who is interested in biodiversity or different species of plants and animals in order to promote social interaction in discussion with a therapist or teacher. It could also be used as a free-choice read for a neurotypical student who is interested in ecosystems and biodiversity.

[Whole And · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredibly rich resource for children (and the lucky adult reading the book to them!) to discover the awe inspiring natural world and it's immense biodiversity. Beginning with our own family tree, the author describes the 5 kingdoms as branches of a tree. Kingdoms Monera, Fungi, Protoctista, Plants and Animals are all identified and describe in detail. The information is simply laid out with gorgeous illustrations. The content is not overwhelming yet specific and thorough. Although there seems to be very little on the page compared to a science textbook there is great opportunity for discussion based on what's been written. An excellent resource to dive into science and the awe that is this planet.

[Karen · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has a great deal of information and reads a lot like a science text. The pictures are bright and vivid and there are some attempts to break down numbers by putting them in a format separate from the text, but I found it all fairly overwhelming and difficult to focus on in any meaningful way. There is a cool picture of a tree with five distinct branches introducing the five kingdoms of life (monera, fungi, plants, protoctista, and animals) but aside from this, I didn't find the pictures helped much to clarify the heady information in the text.

[Tinika · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started Tree of Life to prep it before presenting it to a grade six class; I finished it because it was extremely interesting. It not just introduces the five branches of the tree of life but stresses the interconnectivity of species. The explanations are clear and concise. A graphic of a tree on each 2 page spread shows the percentage that that group (monera, proctista, plants, etc) comprises out of the total number of known species. The rest of the illustrations introduce some lesser known, oddball species - and the class to which I presented this book was intrigued, as well.

[Karen Dransfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

"If every known species on Earth were a leaf on a tree, that tree would have 1 750 000 leaves."

Another great KidCitizen book that breaks down the types of living things on earth into parts of a whole tree. The small tree pictures where it highlights how much of the population covers each different section is cool to show how big or small each is. It goes into classification of animals and plants. And why they are divided into the groups. A great read. and the extra notes and ideas for further study in the back are great.

[Jenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

We love this book at our house because of the simplified introduction to the kingdoms of life, taxonomy and the way in which they ate organized and illustrated. For certain, this book will be added to our personal library and referred to again and again.

[Angela]

Grade- 4th and 5th

Topic: Ecosystems, Classification of organisms

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book on classification/biology. Talks alittle bit about everything being descended from ancient bacteria.

[Blake · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've only actually glanced through this book, but I want to purchase it for my classroom!

[Morgan Kuch]

There is a lot of vocabulary in this book. It is more of a science book to be used with older elementary. I like how it starts with a tree and ends with the same tree.