Do You Like Being a Tree

by Datia Ben Dor, Italy Bekin (Illustrator), Shira Atik (Translator)

A curious child tries to understand: what does a tree feel? Is it happy being a tree? Perhaps it finds it hard to stand still in one spot all the time… This ability to see the glass as half-full makes the tree an inspiring character. This book invites readers to discuss their love of nature, and how to be content.

Genres: Jewish

Board book

First published January 1, 2026

Reviews

[Julie Ditton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This adorable book portrays a conversation between a young boy and a tree. Wouldn't the tree prefer to be able to walk about and visit his friends? But the tree loves his life. He loves that his roots can reach so far, that he can shelter the birds and feel the wind and the dew and that he has such a great view. This story not only celebrates trees but also sends the message of appreciating who you are and what you have. Italy Bekin's translation from the original book by Datia Ben Dor in Hebrew, is in simple language that will delight youngsters. The illustrations by Shira Atik are ingenious. I read this to my almost 4 year old grandchild and we both giggled at the artwork. The faces in the trees are cute and the painting of the tree taking a walk on the sidewalk, the roots spread out like octopus legs was very funny. He also enjoyed pouring over all the details of the illustration of tree roots in the ground. there were pipes, animal dens, and hidden treasure. We received this book from PJ Library in celebration of Tu B'Shvat, the Jewish Arbor Day which usually falls in February. But I loved the fact that the ground cutaway illustration also included the detail of a groundhog in it's den! Although not intentional in the original, the happy coincidence lets Americans reading to their little ones pull in Groundhog's Day too. I only wish that I could find it on sale. so many people would love it!
We received