I AM NOT A TREE!

by Kelly Leiter, Debbie Gillund (Illustrator)

Jonathon has a problem at school, but when he tells his mom, her words of advice are more confusing than helpful. How will he face returning to class... and will his mom ever make sense again?I Am Not a Tree! is a fun, thought-provoking story about learning to trust one's identity in the face of doubt. This book paints a visual representation of how other people's words, however ridiculous they may seem, carry the possibility of shaping one's self concept. Share with your loved ones of all ages this essential lesson in confidence building and self-advocacy. It's sure to become a bedtime favorite! About the author : Kelly Leiter has been an educator at heart since first grade. She recalls her mother being sent a note that read, "Please tell Kelly that I am the teacher!" She officially began her career in 1982 and is still not ready to retire. This story was written about a real-life experience with her son and first appeared in Crystal McVea's New York Times bestseller Chasing Heaven. It has been told in many classrooms, teen camps and workshops across North America and is loved by audiences of all ages. About the Debbie Gillund inherited her love of art from her maternal grandmother, who painted with her at an early age and always had the foresight to put down a tarp. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Calgary, where she currently resides with her supportive husband, their two creative kids, and the least graceful cat known to humankind.

"I AM NOT A TREE! is a beautiful reminder to each of us of the importance of not only declaring who we are in this world but also a strong reminder to remember who we are not. Jonathon's beautiful legacy lives on through the pages of this book and through his message of knowing who you are and loving that person." -- Crystal McVea, New York Times bestselling author

"I AM NOT A TREE! has become an integral part of Choices Seminars' Teen Camps, both in Canada and Texas. Kelly masterfully facilitates this heartwarming experience that children of all ages can relate to. I am so excited to see it in print and to be able to share it with hundreds of families that have already come to know and love it." --Melinda Howell, Owner of Choices Seminars

Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2021

Reviews

[Jessica Massie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strong, Beautiful Message by a Precious mother, wife, and teacher

The message shared on these pages should be heard boys and girls of all ages, as a reminder that it ok to be exactly who you were created to be! It is a beautiful depiction of the struggle between believing in who you are, and not allowing others paint your picture! Thank You Kelly for sharing a piece of your heart! You are honoring Jonathan perfectly!

[Kayla Haswell Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and sweet

Powerful story about knowing who you are. Children of all ages will relate to this timeless wisdom and beautiful artwork.

[Wendy Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written story with a positive and easy to understand message, and all perfectly illustrated by my very talented friend Debbie!

[Sonya Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful message

[Amy Baranski decker · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome story! I think this book would be great for an elementary counselor doing classroom guidance lessons! Great job!!

[Deanna Westbrook · Rating 1 out of 5]

Anyone who writes “let’s go Brandon” on public forums from a page to promote their book, is pathetic.