And the Trees Talked Back

by Frederick J Burns, Ellie Boultwood, Sandy Ferguson Fuller (Editor)

Meet Amanda, an extraordinary child with a unique gift - she can talk to trees.
Living in a quaint village with a mystical forest, Amanda's life takes an enchanting turn when she searches for her inquisitive cat, Daisy. As the sun sets and the moonlight casts its glow, the duo embark on a thrilling night-time adventure.
As Amanda encounters ancient trees, she uncovers a world she never knew existed, wherewisdom and acceptance coexist with fear andhatred. Amidst the rustling leaves and hauntingshadows, she confronts the duality of nature, discovering the true meaning of good and evil.
Her bonds with nature deepen and she learns tonavigate the world where choices shape destinies.Amanda and the Talking Trees is a heartwarmingtale of wonder, friendship, and self-discoverythat will captivate readers of all ages.

48 pages, Hardcover

Published November 4, 2023

Reviews

[Laura Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first thing I want to mention is the illustrations in this wonderful story. They are incredible. I especially like that while they are mostly in soft gray, black and white, there are soft hints of other colors such as the red cardinal perched in a tree, the pale pink of Amanda’s sweater, and her calico cat, Daisy’s, light orange spots.

Longmeadow is no ordinary town and Amanda is no ordinary girl. She sees faces in the trees. All kinds of faces. When her beloved cat slips outside into the night and she goes in search of her, she’s surprised that she can talk to the trees, and they talk back.

“I never knew a tree could talk.”

” That’s funny,” replied the tree. “I never knew a human could listen.”

As Amanda continues talking to the trees, she’s told to keep their secret or human’s will cut them down. Kill them. It won’t matter that they provide the air to breathe. Fear would make them destroy the trees. I now know what the lack of color in the illustrations means to me. There’s good and evil. Black and white. And maybe something magical in between.

I truly enjoyed this wonderful adventure and often found myself grinning. The conversations between Amanda and the trees were often silly and fun. They were also a little sad and sometimes scary. There’s one big old tree that’s really mean and it hates humans. Especially Amanda who he calls Humanda.

Frederick Burns is a talented artist and a true story teller and this book will charm readers, young or young at heart.

I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

"And the Trees Talked Back" is a delightful adventure that invites readers into a world where the extraordinary becomes possible. The story centers around Amanda, a young girl with a unique gift—she can speak with trees. As she follows her cat Daisy one night, she enters into a magical journey through enchanted woodlands.

The detailed drawings scattered throughout the book not only add visual appeal but also contribute to a nostalgic atmosphere. The imaginative blend of creativity, whimsy, and a thoughtful exploration of Good and Evil makes this book a captivating and enriching read for young readers. It's a charming tale that not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons.

First Line: Amanda’s new house was an ordinary old colonial in a New England town called Longmeadow.
Genre: Children
Author: Frederick J. Burns
Page Count: 48

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

[Gina Rae Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

In “And the Trees Talked Back” by Frederick J. Burns, readers are transported to a quaint village where a young girl named Amanda discovers that she possesses a remarkable gift – the ability to communicate with trees. This children’s fiction book unfolds into a heartwarming tale filled with wonder, friendship, and self-discovery.

Amanda’s extraordinary journey begins when she sets out to find her curious cat, Daisy, leading her into a mystical forest that comes alive with enchantment as the moonlight casts its glow. The narrative takes a thrilling turn as Amanda encounters ancient trees, revealing a hidden world where wisdom and acceptance coexist alongside fear and hatred.

The story beautifully explores the duality of nature, unraveling the true meaning of good and evil amidst the rustling leaves and haunting shadows. As Amanda navigates this magical realm, she deepens her bonds with nature and learns that choices shape destinies. The author, Frederick J. Burns, skillfully weaves heartwarming lessons of friendship and the importance of respecting nature, while also addressing the complexities of goodness counteracted by the natural instinct to protect oneself.

What makes this book truly exceptional is its relevance in today’s world. The narrative imparts valuable lessons that resonate across generations, fostering a sense of connection to the environment and promoting empathy and understanding. In a society where these values are crucial, “And the Trees Talked Back” stands out as a beacon of inspiration.

The book’s concise 48 pages make it accessible to young readers, and the hardcover format adds a touch of durability to this enchanting story. The illustrations, crafted by the author as black and white line drawings with a hint of pastel color, are visually appealing and enhance the overall reading experience.

Having read this to a 7-year-old who was thoroughly enthralled, it’s clear that the book’s magic extends to captivate both young and old alike. The creative narrative, touching lessons, and inspiring message make “And the Trees Talked Back” a perfect addition to every home, school, and library. This Nana wholeheartedly recommends this beautifully crafted tale for its ability to ignite the imagination and leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages.

I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.

[M.M. Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love trees! Yes, I am one of those tree huggers and kissers. Maybe that is strange ,but it made me want to read and review this lovely children's book. For me, to have a tree talk back would be awesome!

In this sweet book, the main character, Amanda, is just looking out for her kitten when she encounters the different personalities of trees that want to get to know a human. Isn't that cool?



I loved how each tree she encountered took time to know her and she to know them. Oh yes, she encountered one that was afraid of her too. That tree's fear was based upon natural things for a tree, like being cut down by humans. But kindness prevailed and understanding won out. If this does not sound familiar to life, then what is? I could not get enough of the tree to human conversation. This conversation also was for kids who could read fairly well. Although this book was most likely marketed as a picture book, it was anything but. The sentences are complex and meaningful.



If the story did not grab me enough, then there is the illustrations themselves. The author not only wrote the book but did them too. Each two page spread had a specific kind of tree that accompanied the pages. All the art work was done in black and white which made this reader wonder what they looked like but that is where the story became appealing.



This is such a well done book and I hope that the author might do a follow up. Great job! 5 stars for sure!



DIsclosure: I received a copy of this book to review. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors, Network

[Angela Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

And the Trees Talked Back is a Wonderful Little Book Full of Lots of Heartwarming Lessons. As little Amanda explores her new community and its unique trees, she takes young readers into an entertaining fantasy story--and brings a lot of opportunities for learning some valuable lessons, too. While the book is short, it offers looks at kindness, individuality, respect, acceptance, fear, and good vs. evil. The story is perfect for introducing children to somewhat heavy topics like differences and acceptance in an entertaining way.

Simple Illustrations Bring a Very Natural Feel to the Story. The style of the illustrations is perfect for this children's story! The simple black and white (with a bit of color on Daisy, the kitten) brings a natural feeling of peace to the story--but also highlights some of the darker, more dramatic moments very effectively as well!

Would I Recommend And the Trees Talked Back by Frederick J. Burns? This story is the perfect book for young elementary-aged readers to read independently or use for family or library/classroom storytimes. I love children's books that help caregivers introduce or reinforce life lessons like the importance of kindness and the destructive power of emotions like fear, intolerance, and anger. I would recommend this book to families with younger elementary-aged students, but older students and adults could also benefit from the book's messages!

[pawsreadrepeat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review audiobook for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Frederick J. Burns and iRead Book Tours. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.

And the Trees Talked Back is the story of a unique child named Amanda with a special gift. She can talk to the trees. Amanda lives in a quaint village with a mystical forest. Amanda’s life takes an enchanting turn one night when she searches for her very curious cat, Daisy. Using the moonlight, the duo embarks on a thrilling night-time adventure.

As Amanda encounters ancient trees, she uncovers a world unknown to her. A world where acceptance and wisdom coexist with fear and hatred. On her adventure she confronts the duality of nature as she discovers the true meaning of good and evil. Her bonds with nature deepen when she learns to navigate the world where choice shape destinies.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and think it will appeal to all audiences. The illustrations are perfect and truly bring the story to life. I enjoyed meeting each tree and feel like their personalities played well off one another. What I love most about this book is the underlying message. Living in the PNW, I love being amongst nature and am thankful I don’t have far to go!

The author does an excellent job of sending an important message from a perspective I’ve not read that often. I hope to read more from this author as well as see this style grow.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

And the Trees Talked Back, authored and illustrated by Frederick J. Burns, is a delightful journey into a world where nature speaks. In this story, Amanda, a young girl with the unique ability to communicate with trees, embarks on an adventure in a mystical forest accompanied by her cat, Daisy. The narrative unfolds as Amanda searches for her lost cat, leading to her encounters with ancient trees that impart wisdom and life lessons. These interactions are pivotal in shaping Amanda's understanding of good and evil, marking a significant growth in her character.

The book's length, while brief, adequately encompasses the story arc, leaving readers desiring more time with the charming duo of Amanda and Daisy. Burns's dual role as the illustrator enriches the experience with illustrations that beautifully capture the essence and atmosphere of the story, from the characters to the mystical woods.

Burns's writing style is accessible and engaging, appealing to a broad audience. The language is simple enough for children to grasp yet possesses a depth that adults can appreciate. This balance makes And the Trees Talked Back a rare gem in children's literature that resonates with readers of all ages. It is a heartwarming read that I enthusiastically recommend for its universal appeal and the enchanting journey it offers.

[Kim Bartosch · Rating 4 out of 5]

And the Trees Talked Back by Frederick J. Burns is an enchanting children's book that caught my attention, thanks to its captivating illustrations. The portrayal of the little girl on the title page and the distinct personalities given to each tree showcases Burns' artistic prowess in bringing characters to life visually.

The story delivers a valuable lesson on love and kindness toward all living things, although, at times, I wished for a deeper exploration of the narrative. There's a whimsical touch reminiscent of "Alice in Wonderland," yet it lacks the internal conflict that gives the classic tale depth. I think the author could remove most of the narrative, keeping it under 400 words, and tell the story with his illustrations instead. Nevertheless, the overall warmth of the story and its positive message make it a meaningful read for young audiences.

All in all, And the Trees Talked Back may not reach the narrative expected of some picture books, but it excels in captivating young readers through its engaging illustrations and positive themes. It's a delightful bedtime option that combines fantasy with a gentle reminder about the importance of kindness and empathy.

Thank you Frederick J. Burns for my honest review, the book, and your guest post. I look forward to more beautifully illustrated books like this one!

[Sandra Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely story of a little girl named Amanda and the things she notices around her. The prose had a poetic lilt, which was a nice touch.

The black-and-white sketches were just gorgeous! What I liked best was the playful way the images interacted with the text. For instance, when Amanda is looking for her kitten, Daisy, she uses a flashlight to flash an area of white space onto the black text. Very creative and a wonderful way to naturally draw the reader’s eye. There’s a great level of contrast in the text, which again engages and directs the reader.

All this led to a talking tree. Amanda never knew that trees could talk. The whole thing was like something out of Alice in Wonderland. It was quite fascinating, especially when the trees provide insight and perspective.

“And remember, we create the very air humans breathe. They could not live without us.
We hold the land together with our roots. We provide shade with our leaves. But they cut us down to burn us for warmth, to make us into objects for their use, or to uproot us if we stand in their way.”

In “And the Trees Talked Back,” a little girl learns from the wise oaks and makes new friends. But then Amanda learns that not every tree wants to be her friend. How can she convince this tree that not all humans are terrible?

A sweet and quick story for early readers.

[Tee-Hee Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

For Amanda, in @fredtheartist60 children’s book, “And The Trees Talked Back”, she has a special talent in seeing faces in everything, whether it’s sidewalk cracks, folded sheets, or trees, she sees them everywhere!

But now, they’re talking! 😱

At first I thought maybe this would be a scary book, but it’s not, unless your child has particular triggers.

The water color illustrations were done by the author himself and make for a unique addition to the story. It brings it to life and helps you interpret each face of each tree how the author meant for it to be seen, which is pretty cool!🎨👨‍🎨

Amanda is mentioned to mean “lovable” in the story, and she sure shows up as a well example of this in the story. It teaches other children that kindness, care, love, and respect can go a long way in life, even if it comes to things like animals, and trees! Not just people-which is a great mindset to teach children to have. 🥰

Lastly, the book had an ending I didn’t expect but also made a good point about what happens if we live with hate in our hearts instead of kindness and love, and how giving each individual a chance rather than comparing them all as the same is important, because nobody ever is exactly the same, and a lack of self love, judgment, and hate and harm are all bad things to harbor in our hearts and hold on to.

Overall, I rate this children’s book:

🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 (4/5) Stars!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

And the Trees Talked Back is a cute little book from the new to me author, Frederick J Burns. It was a delight to read and meeting Amanda. I loved this magical tale as she goes into a new world to her as she tries to find her beloved kitty, Daisy. I loved the lessons she learns from the start to finish. A wonderful that teaches good vs evil.

I loved the illustrations all throughout And the Trees Talked Back. They truly show how talented
Frederick J Burns is. I was amazed that not only does he provide a wonderful story, he was able to beautifully illustrate it. The pictures are a perfect addition to the story. They follow the book and match the written text. I thought they were great for helping the youngest of readers to continue to stay engaged in what is going on.

Five plus stars is what And the Trees Talked Back deserves. I would love to see it placed on the shelves in public libraries, as well as, shelves in elementary classrooms. I highly recommend it for readers who are between the ages of three and eight. I would love to see more of these type books from Frederick J Burns in the near future to be released.

I received a hard cover copy of Frederick J Burns’ And the Trees Talked Back from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this fairytale-esque storybook, we have a little girl that has a big imagination who has moved into a new house. Exploring some of her new home during the day, she sees all the many trees in her yard. That night her curious kitten gets out of her window, and she goes searching for it. But what she finds is as the title suggests, that the trees are talking back to her as she searches for her cat.

Amanda is just as surprised as the trees that she can hear and see their faces. She also finds that just like in the human world, trees can be kind and friendly, or even unfriendly and unkind. They also grow and can be in pain and die. But they can become her friends too.

This is beautifully illustrated in black and white, with just a dash of color here and there. I liked this uniquely told story with a curious kitten, girl, and a night full of magic and maybe just a little hint of danger.

I was provided a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

http://pausefortales.blogspot.com/202...

[Country Mama · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Amanda and her kitty kat Daisy:) Daisy is such a cute little cat. And then Daisy gets into such adventures! She is so mischievous, but that's what all cats do!
Then we meet Amika. Amika starts to talk to Amanda and they both enjoy the conversations. But then the others don't like when Amanda and Amika are talking to each other, it isn't natural. And all the characters that we get to meet and the names of each of the new character trees and their different appearances. This is such an interesting read for all ages.
The message of good and evil and right and wrong in this book, is perfect for anyone reading it, especially young children. I really loved this story y'all.
I wonder how the author thought about the trees and how they all resembled human beings, I wonder if the author had some experiences with trees as a young child that influenced this story? Hmm, food for thought y'all.

[Paula Learmouth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amanda moves to a new house in Longmeadow, New England. Amanda isn't like other children, she has a talent, she sees faces everywhere she goes...sidewalk cracks, brook stones, even trees. Daisy is Amanda's little kitten, that always sleeps with her, until one night Amanda wakes up with no Daisy next to her. Going outside to look for Daisy, Amanda makes new friends...Amika, Tetti, Connie, Melvin trees that can talk to her and she can talk back. There is only one problem Cronus, Cronus doesn't think the trees should talk to humans and tells the other trees it's wrong to talk to humans. This is a story that shows good and bad. This is a beautiful book with detailed drawings

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amanda and her mischievous cat Daisy are lovable and endearing characters that add charm to the story. Their night-time adventure was thrilling and captured my imagination.

I appreciated the theme of friendship and acceptance, particularly in the interactions between Amanda and the talking trees. The book effectively conveys the message of good and evil, making it suitable for readers of all ages, especially young children.

The variety of tree characters, their names, and appearances are interesting and engaging elements of the story.

The illustrations in the oversized book are beautiful and will contribute to sparking the imaginations of young readers.

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I had to do was see the cover, read the title and know that I had to have this book. I love everything to do with trees, whether naked, clothed, or anything in between.

This oversized book, with wonderful illustrations, and a young girl who can talk to trees is sure to spark the young ones imaginations. Like seeing shapes in clouds, she sees faces in trees. I have seen things in trees too. Amanda has a huge heart and capacity for empathy. I smiled through the entire book and cannot imagine a child not enjoying this wonderful, magical adventure with Amanda.

[Jerah Alvarado · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved how well the illustrator captured the story, making each groove on every tree shape a unique face. Every tree has its own personality and opinions on humans. My favorite was the elephant tree named Amika. In this imaginative tale, children could learn the importance of listening to others, working through differences, and being kind.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this beautifully written and illustrated children’s book that teaches a wonderful lesson in a fantastic way. Amanda is a wonderful child. I loved how this story flows and is very understandable. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[Christine · Rating 1 out of 5]

This review is of the kindle edition only - there are several formatting issues that make this book near impossible to read for the kindle. The worst is the lack of spaces between the words.

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

And the Trees Talked Back is an wonderful children's book about a little girl named Amanda. Amanda has a cat named Daisy. One night, Daisy runs off and Amanda goes to track her down. Once inside the forest, Amanda discovers she can talk to trees. A unique gift, for sure, Amanda learns the power of friendship while also helping defeat "evil", if you will (a bad tree).
This is an intriguing story that I think will appeal to readers of all ages. The illustrations are fun, with each tree having a unique face and personality. And the story has a good message at its core. Plus, it might just make young readers appreciate nature a bit more. Who wouldn't want to talk to trees? I bet they'd have loads of magical stories to tell us if they really could talk the way they do in this book.
A lovely read with a unique premise that's easy to read.
5 stars!