Trunk Goes Thunk!: A Woodland Tale of Opposites

by Heather C. Morris, Chantelle Thorne (illustrator), Burgen Thorne (illustrator)

Whoosh! Crash! Thunk! Follow along as the LOUD sounds of a falling tree signal the transformation of a QUIET area of the forest into a flourishing center of activity.

This lyrical nonfiction story uses word opposites such as small and large, dark and light, high and low, and fast and slow to introduce young readers to the natural recycling of fallen timber into log bridges. From bears, porcupines, and raccoons to eagles, mice, and deer, a host of forest animals repurpose a fallen tree, connecting two sides of a stream together throughout the seasons.

A carefully chosen color palette of soothing natural colors and a charming collection of characters bring the playful prose to life in what is certain to become a storytime or bedtime favorite and a go-to book for early elementary science and language arts teachers.

Genres: Picture Books, Animals, Nature, Childrens, Storytime, Nonfiction

32 pages, Hardcover

Published October 8, 2024

About the author

Heather C. Morris is the grateful author of multiple stories for kids – fiction, nonfiction, picture books, and middle grade – including Trunk Goes Thunk! (Gnome Road Publishing, 2024), a ghost story in the Haunted States of America Anthology (Godwin Books/Macmillan, 2024), and the upcoming Backyard Stew (Gnome Road, 2026). She is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and has written six titles for the educational market. When Heather’s not reading, typing, or doodling, you’ll find her hiking the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with
her family.

Reviews

[Kirstyn (readwithkirstyn) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk! by Heather C. Morris is a delightful and whimsical read that captures the magic of imagination. With charming illustrations and a playful narrative, it’s perfect for young readers and parents alike. This enchanting story is sure to inspire laughter and creativity in every page turn!

[Bethe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some rhyming text, lots of opposites, a sprinkle of onomatopoeia, engaging illustrations. I like the format with the opposite words in bold print. So many animals to find in the woodland scenes. Be sure to look the endpages, they could be their own opposites, standing and fallen.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

When a tree trunk goes thunk, a bunch of animals come to see what made the noise. The trunk becomes a bridge that allows the animals to move across the river very easily. It's a concept book about opposites that still has a story. The illustrations do a great job showing the opposites too. Worked well in a toddler storytime. Could also work for preschool too.

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk is a delightful and engaging exploration of forest life. Heather Morris highlights a wide range of woodland animals and the many creative ways they interact with a fallen tree—climbing over, swimming under, and everything in between. The book cleverly introduces young readers to opposites, showing how one log can create countless opportunities for forest creatures.

Themes include ecosystems, animal families, tree life cycles, and language concepts like synonyms and antonyms, all presented through simple, accessible text. The whimsical illustrations beautifully capture the changing seasons and the richness of life in the forest. This book is a wonderful addition to any classroom or library, blending science, language arts, and imagination in a memorable way. Highly recommended!

[Kathy Temean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how Heather took a simple idea of using opposites to tell a beautiful story of how one tree falling over in the forest could provide so much for the animals that live there. Everyone should read Heather's journey, which is shared here. It is amazing how everything came together with her critique group's help, and the good fortune of having Chantelle and Burgen illustrate her book. I'm so glad she was excited to have them illustrate her book and know how lucky she is that Gnome Road let them illustrate her book.

What they did with Heather's simple lyrical text is a work of art. I keep saying how each of the books they have illustrated keeps getting better, and I keep wondering how that can be, but it is true. I started featuring them on Writing and Illustrating for the last ten years. First, with single illustrations, they sent me, and I used in various posts. Then, featuring them on Illustrator Saturday. Now, for the last eight years, showing off their book illustrations in the many books they have illustrated.

As I read this book, I thought about the text and the story it told and was in awe of how Chantelle and Burgen took those words and captured so much of their meaning in the art they created. This is a book to cherish. It is one that adults will love, and children will want to open over and over again, each time finding more little details they missed the first time around and enjoying the opposites in the text.

I adore the night illustration of the raccoons scampering across the trunk, but I love every page. A great example of how to use text and art to tell a story. You can find Heather's journey along with the illustrations on Writing and Illustrating on September 29th.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk! is a creative introduction to the concept of opposites through the path of shifting seasons, animals and a charming woodland setting. The story leads the reader through beautifully illustrated woods to where a tree trunk falls across a river providing a bridge for various animals through different seasons and situations, contrasting behaviors of these critters during day and night, summer and winter, when they are hot or cold, moving slow or fast. Each page introduces new characters, new adventures and new learning for young readers. The colors are vibrant and the collection of animals AND some of the opposites unique providing a refreshing, outstanding addition to many narrative-lacking, list format opposite books!

This title is ideal for children aged 4 to 8, but its engaging illustrations and storyline enhance its appeal to a broader age range. It's a wonderful addition to homes, schools, classrooms, and public libraries, making it a perfect gift for newborns and young readers starting their first book collection. It's also fantastic for Woodland-themed baby showers and nurseries!

I was provided, by Netgalley, with an electronic copy of Trunk Goes Thunk by Heather C. Morris in return for an honest review. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to read and review this title.

[Josephine Sorrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk! is a creative and beautifully illustrated book of opposites. Readers view the woodland animals as they meander through the changing seasons. The journey begins after a tree has fallen across a river providing a bridge for various animals all doing their own thing through the different seasons and situations. The fallen log is covered in sweet little paw prints.
Explore opposites in the contrasting behaviors of critters during day and night, summer and winter, when they are hot or cold, and moving slow or fast. Each page introduces new characters, new adventures and new learning for young readers/listeners. The colors are vibrant and the animal faces have the cutest expressions. I love the panel showing the raccoons in the dark with an owl in flight, which offers the opportunity to note that both animals are nocturnal. The next page is a noticeable contrast to light where children view eager beavers building a home.
This picture book has an autumn feel to it so add this one your pumpkins, scarecrows and hibernations display.

[Shan · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the most part, I think that this is a cute and clever book. However, I think that the opposites part felt a bit forced, especially as the book progressed. Originally, I thought that the opposites aspect was nonexistent. Then, once I noticed that it was, in fact, present I felt like the author was scrambling for different examples in order to stick with the theme of the book. Although, I think that this book is appropriate for young, young kids that are still learning their opposites. To any kids older than about kindergarten-2nd grade, this book would be pretty boring and dull. As for the illustrations, they fit this younger age group really well due to their bright colors and cute animal drawings.
In order to make this book better, I would have appreciated if the author added some more depth/diversity to the writing. Broaden the opposite pairs you use, how much you write on each page, what you write about on each page, etc.

[Reading Adventures · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely adorable and creative way to teach little ones all about opposites and forest animals. We adore this book. The text is so easy to follow along and get creative about opposites like dark & light, quiet or loud and even separated & together. The story starts when the trunk goes thunk and the animals of the forest don’t know what to do next. We get to see so many different forest creatures and how they deal with the changes, even through the seasons. The illustrations are stunning and really give life to the animals and the forest. This would make a wonderful addition to any bedtime routine with a story so fun. We love this book. We reviewed this as an ebook ARC and we can’t wait to add it to our home library. It's perfect gift for the animal loving little one in your world. Enjoy this adorable adventure together.
1000 stars

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A tree falls in the forest—but what does that really mean? In this thoughtful picture book, a group of woodland animals ponders the impact of a fallen tree, using pairs of opposites to explore the interconnectedness of the forest and its creatures.

This is a charming and accessible read for the lower elementary crowd. With cuddly animal characters and a clever introduction to ecological concepts through opposites, it offers both sweetness and substance. The narrative is simple and effective, making it an ideal choice for storytime or early science discussions.

While the artwork didn’t quite resonate with me—it leans a little too digital and polished—I have no doubt it will be a hit with young readers. Educational, engaging, and just the right length, this is a strong addition to any early childhood or school library collection.

[Laura Bower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk is a clever story told through a series of opposites that will have the reader actively following along/participating. The story focuses on a tree that falls in a forest (told from the perspective of adorable woodland animals) and how the tree turns into a bridge that unites them all. Morris uses lush language that is supported by beautiful, lush illustrations (i.e. sticky summers, and silvery winters). Kids will love following the different animals and how they all use the bridge in different ways. I love the alliteration of the title — Trunk Goes Thunk and kids will not only have fun reading from beginning to end, but learn about opposites and cause and effect along the way. I highly recommend this charming book. Trunk Goes Thunk is a Slam Dunk!

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been anticipating this book for months and was thrilled to get the opportunity to read an advanced copy. TRUNK GOES THUNK is a lyrical nonfiction story set in a gorgeous woodlands setting featuring opposites and a slew of adorable forest animals. When a trunk goes thunk, it sets off a series of explorations by the animals, through day and night, season to season, weaving in opposites that will educate and delight readers. Author Heather Morris’s words are exquisitely told and sing off the page in this beautifully told story. Add in the incredibly whimsical and expressive illustrations by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne and both a cover and color pallet that is absolutely perfect, and you have a have a truly winning combination. HIGHLY recommend!

[Joyce Uglow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather C. Morris' spectacular TRUNK GOES THUNK: A Woodland Tale of Opposites sparkles, shines, and shimmers with fun. The forest friends of all sizes are not only cute and lovable, they're smart in that they figure out ways to be innovative and resourceful. I predict the opposite words will turn into shout-outs during story times no matter what time the book is shared. I can see this book carried for a breakfast time read aloud as well as a regular bedtime reread.

On top of enjoying Morris' spare text, you will fall for the warm and cozy illustrations by Chantelle & Burgen Thorne. This book is perfect for carpet time at school (or Grandma's lap) and car rides down long (or short) roads. Thunk (oops... thank) you, Heather! I now have a great baby shower gift.

[Shannon McGee · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is a beautifully illustrated book about wildlife and the connection to trees around us. A tree falls in the woods, and different animals use the tree in various ways.

My favorite part of this picture book is the art. It is truly gorgeous. The writing is cute and is an interesting topic for a story.

I had to read multiple times to make sure I understood the story correctly because, in my opinion, it did not flow very well.

This is good for kids seven and under. Autumn is an excellent time to read because it has a fall appeal. The book will be available on October 8th, 2024.

[Magdalena Metzger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautifully illustrated tale of opposites, great for very little ones first learning how to describe the world around them. I loved the sweet lyrical simplicity of the story and the way it shows a wide variety of opposites in the way these woodland animals live. The rustic, cozy illustrations are just absolutely wonderful. The wide variety of woodland animals are sure to delight little ones and adults alike, and inspire a sense of wonder. My son and I loved this book and I would highly recommend it to parents of very little ones! I rate this book 5 stars!!
🦊🍂❄️🐾🌲

[Tasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful and engaging artwork illustrates how these animals experience opposites in this nature tale. A tree trunk falls in the forest and builds a bridge that small and big animals can go back and forward on, travel over or under, and experience the cold and the heat, in addition to many other opposites. The story keenly identifies the opposites featured through bolded text, so caregivers can point out the opposites as a supplement to the story or emphasise when reading.

[Lisa Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk is a sweet lyrical book about opposites. I loved the illustrations! That was my favorite part of the book. I previewed this as an ebook. This looks like a book my little guy would enjoy in print. The age range of the book says ages 3 - 7. I would personally say it’s more appropriate up to age 5. There would need to be more context to engage the older readers.

Thank you NetGalley for sharing this ARC for review. All opinions are my own.

[Cindy Overcast · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Trunk Goes Thunk," wonderfully written by Heather C. Morris and beautifully illustrated by Chantelle & Burgen Thorne, gives readers an answer to the question, "If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?" The answer is yes, it certainly does ... WHOOSH, CRASH, THUNK! As forest animals seek out the loud sounds from far away, the story shows how nature's opposites can come together as an old tree finds a new purpose.

[Suhasini Gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk! is a gem for young readers, weaving a captivating story of animals coming together after a tree falls in the forest, creating a natural bridge over the river. The illustrations are stunning, bringing the forest to life with rich colors and intricate details. The rhyming text and use of opposites make it an engaging and perfect read-aloud for young listeners in classrooms and educational settings. Highly recommended for teachers and parents.

[Larissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This children’s picture book is beautiful. It has wonderful graphics and such a lovely message about nature and how a tree that once provided one thing for the eco system can have a “new life” when many may think that its life is done. The opposite portrayed are done seamlessly and in such a way that kids can learn about how an eco-system can really work in harmony.
Thank you so much to Gnome Road Publishing and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.

[Paula Robison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This delightful picture book, with its beautiful, painterly illustrations, showcases kid-friendly words of opposite meanings, making it a great read-a-loud as well as a wonderful book for children learning to read on their own! The forest scenes and the animals are so lovely and demonstrate the meaning of each opposite, for example: hot/cold, forward/back, plus a few more advanced words for emerging readers to reach for.

[Cherie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A weathered tree falls in the forest, forming a bridge over the river. Before the tree fell, the river kept the animals apart. Now, they can be together. The luminous illustrations in this book will have children turning the pages and heading deep into a woodland forest.

Although this is a nonfiction book that teaches children about opposites, the animals do tell a story that will encourage children to explore the natural world outside of this book's pages.

[Mary Helen Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather C. Morris' TRUNK GOES THUNK is absolutely charming while also offering solid educational value for young audiences. The book uses simple storytelling and clever use of language--rhyme, onomatopoeia-- to engage children on concepts like opposites, seasons, and the richness of nature. Readers will love following the many adorable forest creatures as they cross the fallen tree from one side to another, meeting each other along the way. Absolutely love it.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Gnome Road Publishing through NetGalley.
Colorful illustrations capture the life that flourishes around this tree that fell. Morris weaves the opposite terms seamlessly in her lyrical text for younger readers. The text offers opportunities for discussion on opposite terms as well as life cycles in the forest.

[Lori Keating · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk! depicts the gathering together of woodland creatures united by a fallen tree. The vibrant illustrations on each page vividly portray the forest's beauty and the animals' playful spirits. Combining Heather's lyrical words with Chantelle's captivating artwork, this book is a delightful inclusion for any child's book collection.

[Julie Childs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how Heather Morris took something as simple as a tree falling and turned it into magic on each page. This is great for opposites (and they are in bold on the pages). But it is also great to discuss each animal and other topics: position words, nocturnal/diurnal animals, season, and more. The pictures are sweet and tie in perfectly with the story.

[Melki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woodland critters adapt quickly to a fallen tree whose trunk allows them to easily cross a river. A sweet story for animal lovers, with delightful illustrations by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne.

[Janet Krauthamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this lyrical, cozy woodland tale of opposites! The contrasting words on each page are beautifully woven into the engaging story, providing stealthy learning opportunities with plenty of kid-appeal. And the stunning illustrations perfectly complement the text. I highly recommend this clever, adorable book!

[Sarah Kurpiel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book. Very well-written. The words read like a poem. This would make a great read-aloud. The book highlights opposites throughout--but this is much more than a book of opposites. The lyrical words and rich illustrations feature a wide variety of woodland creatures and capture the beauty of nature from right to left, from high to low, from summer to winter, from sunrise to sunset.

[Michael Benner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trunk Goes Thunk is a lovely picture book filled with beautiful illustrations and vivid language about how a fallen tree changes the landscape of a woodland for all the animals who live there. It is a delightful read aloud that will be a hit with any child as they see how each animal reacts to the change.