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My Dad Is a Tree
A dad and daughter take pretending to an adorable extreme in this funny book that's perfect for Father's Day.
It’s easy to be a tree. Just pretend your arms are branches, your body is a trunk, and your legs are roots. Don’t move, even if a bird makes a nest on your head, a squirrel hides an acorn in your pocket, and a spider builds a web under your arm. It’s Trees don’t mind those things. Or so says the little girl who persuades her father to be a tree all day long, no matter what, even in the rain!
This silly and sweet picture book will inspire all kinds of imaginative play and is a tribute to parents who will do just about anything for their kids.
It’s easy to be a tree. Just pretend your arms are branches, your body is a trunk, and your legs are roots. Don’t move, even if a bird makes a nest on your head, a squirrel hides an acorn in your pocket, and a spider builds a web under your arm. It’s Trees don’t mind those things. Or so says the little girl who persuades her father to be a tree all day long, no matter what, even in the rain!
This silly and sweet picture book will inspire all kinds of imaginative play and is a tribute to parents who will do just about anything for their kids.
40 pages, Hardcover
Published May 2, 2023
1 person is currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Jon Agee
53 books162 followersI grew up in Nyack, New York, just up the street from the Hudson River. In our house, there was always an art project going on.
My early drawings were very animated: a lot of stuff zipping around, airplanes, racing cars, football players. No surprise my first published drawing was a pack of rats running along a highway (The Rat Race). I did that for the New York Times Op Ed page when I was still in high school.
I went to college at The Cooper Union School of Art in New York City. I studied painting, sculpture and filmmaking, but what I loved doing most—in my spare time—was drawing cartoons and comic strips.
When I graduated, I hauled my pile of doodles into the offices of a bunch of editors, with the wild notion that somebody might publish them. When that failed, I wrote a story for kids to go with my pictures (If Snow Falls). It was two sentences long (which counts, by the way). Frances Foster, a wonderful editor at Random House, saw something in that book and signed me up.
The next book, Ellsworth, was about a dog who teaches economics at a university. When he gets home, he throws off his clothes and acts like a dog, which is fine, until some fellow teachers discover this and he loses his job. Somebody told me that Ellsworth was a story about "being yourself." I never realized it had a moral.
I moved to another publisher with Ludlow Laughs, the story of a grumpy guy who laughs in his sleep. This book was doing very poorly until the comedienne Phyliss Diller read it on PBS's Reading Rainbow. It stayed in print for over twenty years.
My fourth book, The Incredible Painting of Felix Clousseau, was a hit. One of the first people to see it and give it the thumb's up—literally, hot off the press—was Maurice Sendak. We bumped into each other at the printers. It was a lucky first meeting, and happily not our last.
That was all a long time ago. Since then I've written many other picture books, illustrated a few by other authors, and created a series of offbeat wordplay books, beginning with the book of palindromes, Go Hang a Salami! I'm a Lasagna Hog!
I visit schools across the country and sometimes around the globe. I live with my wife, Audrey, in San Francisco.
My early drawings were very animated: a lot of stuff zipping around, airplanes, racing cars, football players. No surprise my first published drawing was a pack of rats running along a highway (The Rat Race). I did that for the New York Times Op Ed page when I was still in high school.
I went to college at The Cooper Union School of Art in New York City. I studied painting, sculpture and filmmaking, but what I loved doing most—in my spare time—was drawing cartoons and comic strips.
When I graduated, I hauled my pile of doodles into the offices of a bunch of editors, with the wild notion that somebody might publish them. When that failed, I wrote a story for kids to go with my pictures (If Snow Falls). It was two sentences long (which counts, by the way). Frances Foster, a wonderful editor at Random House, saw something in that book and signed me up.
The next book, Ellsworth, was about a dog who teaches economics at a university. When he gets home, he throws off his clothes and acts like a dog, which is fine, until some fellow teachers discover this and he loses his job. Somebody told me that Ellsworth was a story about "being yourself." I never realized it had a moral.
I moved to another publisher with Ludlow Laughs, the story of a grumpy guy who laughs in his sleep. This book was doing very poorly until the comedienne Phyliss Diller read it on PBS's Reading Rainbow. It stayed in print for over twenty years.
My fourth book, The Incredible Painting of Felix Clousseau, was a hit. One of the first people to see it and give it the thumb's up—literally, hot off the press—was Maurice Sendak. We bumped into each other at the printers. It was a lucky first meeting, and happily not our last.
That was all a long time ago. Since then I've written many other picture books, illustrated a few by other authors, and created a series of offbeat wordplay books, beginning with the book of palindromes, Go Hang a Salami! I'm a Lasagna Hog!
I visit schools across the country and sometimes around the globe. I live with my wife, Audrey, in San Francisco.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 19, 2023
Want to play outside all day?
Then be a tree.
That’s little Madeleine’s plan anyway. And she ropes her Dad in on the plan too.
“C’mon, Dad, let’s be trees!
Pretend your arms are branches,
your body is a trunk,
your legs are roots,
and then stand in one place.”
A few minutes of this be-a-tree plan turns to owls and robins nesting in Dad’s hair to squirrels pocketing acorns in his shirt! It’s an all-day, father/daughter adventure filled with giggles and smiles galore.
I loved the expression on Dad’s face through it all. Especially his little glances toward the reader. And the rain! Haha… The rain spreads were my favorite laugh out loud pages. Madeleine looks so happy out in the rain and Dad looks…well, come and see!
I’m a huge fan of Mr. Agee’s work and this book is one of his best. The pale, barely blue pages have a texture and peace to them that made me want to flip through again and again. It’s a fun, sweet story about spending time together. A story filled with imagination, humor, and baby owls! :)
Highly recommended.
p.s. If you need a gift for Father’s Day, look no further! THIS book is pure love.
Read
July 21, 2023I love Jon Agee. His books make me smile. It's funny how it starts out with cute things, things you'd normally wish would happen - birds landing on you and cuddling up to you - and then devolves into getting whacked with a kite and rain and having a spider build a whole web under your arm. The look on the dad's face at the end is great, too. Just a few simple lines, and he tells a whole story.
July 5, 2023
Fun humorous story about a little girl who convinces her dad to “be like a tree.” Wildlife is attracted to this new tall tree as Madeleine and her father act like trees all day and evening.
November 18, 2023
Cute book about a little kid who convinces her Dad to stand outside, pretending to be a tree. M has requested it several times.
October 21, 2024
Am căzut pradă așteptărilor și am rămas dezamăgit. E draguță cartea, dar nu am prins mesajul. Deloc. Vă las să o descoperiți de sine stătător.
August 9, 2023
Copy provided by Young Adult Books Central
Madeleine does not want to stop playing outside, so she pretends to be a tree. Trees HAVE to stay outside. She convinces her father to do the same, and he stops his yard work to stand in one place as a "tree". In his case, however, he attracts an owl on his shoulder, a robin who builds a nest on his head, all manner of bugs, and even a spider who weaves a web under his arm! He even gets a kite stuck to him. When it starts to rain, Madeleine tells him not to worry, because trees don't mind the rain. SHe holds an umbrella over his head until it gets dark and the expression on the dad's face gets progressively grumpy. Eventually, they go inside, but Madeleine is thrilled about having spent the entire day outside.
The illustration style reminded me a lot of Eric Carle's tissue paper collage, but with a decided computer edited feel to it. The colors are bright, and the variety of outdoor animals and weather conditions are well protrayed. The text has some welcome repetition, with Madeleine frequently chiming in that "Trees don't mind" that young readers will love to parrot.
If you are looking for books promoting outdoor activities, like Alladin's Outside, You Notice, or ones highlighting imagination, like Yoon's Have You Seen My Invisible Dinosaur, this is a great choice. I loved the father-daughter relationship, and the humor will lend itself well to being read aloud.
Madeleine does not want to stop playing outside, so she pretends to be a tree. Trees HAVE to stay outside. She convinces her father to do the same, and he stops his yard work to stand in one place as a "tree". In his case, however, he attracts an owl on his shoulder, a robin who builds a nest on his head, all manner of bugs, and even a spider who weaves a web under his arm! He even gets a kite stuck to him. When it starts to rain, Madeleine tells him not to worry, because trees don't mind the rain. SHe holds an umbrella over his head until it gets dark and the expression on the dad's face gets progressively grumpy. Eventually, they go inside, but Madeleine is thrilled about having spent the entire day outside.
The illustration style reminded me a lot of Eric Carle's tissue paper collage, but with a decided computer edited feel to it. The colors are bright, and the variety of outdoor animals and weather conditions are well protrayed. The text has some welcome repetition, with Madeleine frequently chiming in that "Trees don't mind" that young readers will love to parrot.
If you are looking for books promoting outdoor activities, like Alladin's Outside, You Notice, or ones highlighting imagination, like Yoon's Have You Seen My Invisible Dinosaur, this is a great choice. I loved the father-daughter relationship, and the humor will lend itself well to being read aloud.
October 30, 2023
The illustrations are fabulous in this book! The collage effect is great. Dads hair looks like brown brush strokes and their are lots of different patterns included too for their clothes and items they bring into the scenes. It often zooms in and out on the characters depending on what bits of them we should be focusing on e.g. zooming in on dads body as we see the spider and its web tucked under his arm or zooming out whilst its raining to show dad and Madeleine looking rather small, covered in rain in their garden.
The change between dad looking a bit frustrated when it starts to rain to dad looking cross as it turns from day to night in the rain is quite funny and I would definitely enjoy sharing this book with a class.
Madeleines commitment to her role as a tree and her dads role as a tree adds to the silliness of this story and allows for lots of opportunities to look at the writing e.g. dad starts to use more explanation marks the more desperate he grows or more capital letters as he gets frustrated at being a tree.
Jon Agee's simple style of illustration is great for this story, especially with the expressions for dad and Madeline - it adds to the humor of the book.
Its quite a random story that is very loveable. I'm interested in exploring more of Jon Agee's work.
The change between dad looking a bit frustrated when it starts to rain to dad looking cross as it turns from day to night in the rain is quite funny and I would definitely enjoy sharing this book with a class.
Madeleines commitment to her role as a tree and her dads role as a tree adds to the silliness of this story and allows for lots of opportunities to look at the writing e.g. dad starts to use more explanation marks the more desperate he grows or more capital letters as he gets frustrated at being a tree.
Jon Agee's simple style of illustration is great for this story, especially with the expressions for dad and Madeline - it adds to the humor of the book.
Its quite a random story that is very loveable. I'm interested in exploring more of Jon Agee's work.
May 31, 2023
On a beautiful sunny day in the backyard, Madeline talks dad into stopping for a moment and acting “like a tree”. In a very short time, many of the local animals and even insects take notice of this tall tree in the yard, and they move on in - taking up residence on dad’s head, arm, and shoulders.
In typical Jon Agee fashion, the characters’ innocence and try at logic create the fun - despite dad’s reluctance to be silly and act like a tree, he certainly does not want to let his daughter down, and then he can’t stop it, even when it starts to rain, and day turns to night. The playfulness of the book is evident by the cover art which is a perfect lead-in for the story and will have readers and listeners guessing on what will happen in the book. In addition, there are some great subtle themes presented in the story, most notably being an appreciation of the natural environment and the fun of playing a game outdoors with family members. This is a fun book to share and read aloud, the humor is perfect for young and old (check out dad’s quick glances at us, the readers throughout the story) and should lead to a further exploration of more of Jon Agee’s wonderful picture books.
In typical Jon Agee fashion, the characters’ innocence and try at logic create the fun - despite dad’s reluctance to be silly and act like a tree, he certainly does not want to let his daughter down, and then he can’t stop it, even when it starts to rain, and day turns to night. The playfulness of the book is evident by the cover art which is a perfect lead-in for the story and will have readers and listeners guessing on what will happen in the book. In addition, there are some great subtle themes presented in the story, most notably being an appreciation of the natural environment and the fun of playing a game outdoors with family members. This is a fun book to share and read aloud, the humor is perfect for young and old (check out dad’s quick glances at us, the readers throughout the story) and should lead to a further exploration of more of Jon Agee’s wonderful picture books.
April 10, 2023
In this humorous and heartwarming book, a father and daughter engage in playful make-believe, taking on the roles of trees with complete dedication. Despite encountering various challenges, such as birds nesting on their heads and spiders building webs on their arms, they remain committed to their roles.
The story celebrates the power of imagination and the deep love parents have for their children, as the father is willing to do anything to make his daughter happy even if he is being played to both the reader's and his daughter's delight. A book about the joy of being outdoors, the reluctance of children wanting to go to bed and the humour that comes with children challenging parental authority.
The story celebrates the power of imagination and the deep love parents have for their children, as the father is willing to do anything to make his daughter happy even if he is being played to both the reader's and his daughter's delight. A book about the joy of being outdoors, the reluctance of children wanting to go to bed and the humour that comes with children challenging parental authority.
August 1, 2023
Madeleine is standing very still, arms stretched out, while dad does yard work. When he asks what she is doing, she says she is pretending to be a tree - and convinces dad that he should be a tree, also. Tree dad attracts a wide variety of critters - and even a kite! He and Madeleine manage to spend the whole day being trees! Though dad doesn't always seem very happy about Madeleine's choice, he is a good sport and they observe lots of nature together.
This is an imaginative book that encourages pretend play. I would pair it with Stuck by Oliver Jeffers. Which makes a great flannel story, by the way.
This is an imaginative book that encourages pretend play. I would pair it with Stuck by Oliver Jeffers. Which makes a great flannel story, by the way.
March 5, 2025
While out in the yard with her father, Madeleine stands like a tree. When Dad asks her why she says it's because trees get to spend all day outside. She encourages Dad to try standing like a tree. Soon he is joined by an owl, some birds, a squirrel... the list continues until Dad can't move due to all of the creatures on him. It's also leading to problems like itches that can't be scratched and getting wet while having to stand in the rain. When he complains to Madeleine about these problems, she simply explains it's ok as trees don't mind all that.
A very cute story recommended for storytime.
A very cute story recommended for storytime.
January 1, 2024
*The last few months of the year I've been "superhero'ed" out, so I know I won't make my usual 200-book goal unless I get creative. And by that, I mean children's books. I'm a librarian, so it's good for me to have some kids' books in my repertoire, too, right? (Okay, I might be slightly cheating, but... some of the kids' books I've read, I've really enjoyed, so I'm actually glad for a reason to cheat, lol).*
Cute, but it didn’t really stand out like a lot of the other kids’ books I’ve been reading.
Cute, but it didn’t really stand out like a lot of the other kids’ books I’ve been reading.
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August 23, 2023As a fan of Agee for many years, I was happy to read his new book My Dad Is a Tree. Agee never disappoints. A little girl wants her dad to pretend he is a tree along with her. As birds and squirrels and other creatures create "itches and tickles" and such, the little girl just keeps replying things like, "That's OK, Dad. A tree doesn't mind..." Sweet daddy/daughter book with a simple premise. The art is a win as well.
April 24, 2024
"My Dad is a Tree" by Jon Agee is a whimsical and heartfelt picture book that showcases Agee's trademark humor and clever storytelling. Through simple yet expressive illustrations, the story explores a child’s imaginative comparison of his dad to a sturdy, reliable tree. It’s a sweet, funny ode to fathers and the unique qualities that children love about their parents. This book is perfect for a light-hearted, affectionate read-aloud session.
May 18, 2023
Let me say that though I was a little disappointed in this new title from Jon Agee, it does have it merit.
I prefer Mr. Agee's wilder titles and find them so charmingly funny. Knowing that his aim was to show how much parents are willing to endure for their children, I just didn't love this. However, I do think that as a fan of his that it should be read by anyone who loves a child.
I prefer Mr. Agee's wilder titles and find them so charmingly funny. Knowing that his aim was to show how much parents are willing to endure for their children, I just didn't love this. However, I do think that as a fan of his that it should be read by anyone who loves a child.
June 1, 2023
A little girl talks her father into pretending to be a tree. He agrees to do it for just a minute, but the minute turns into a day and it turns out that trees are very busy places. A sweet father/child story that will be a fun book to share on Father's day or units about trees. And I love the ending: "I wonder what we will be tomorrow."
July 20, 2023
Madeleine is pretending to be a tree. When Dad asks her what she is doing, she explains and asks him to be a tree with her. Soon an owl has perched on his "branch", a spider is spinning a web, and a squirrel is putting an acorn in his pocket. He is a very good tree! But being a tree is both easy...and not completely fun!
September 25, 2023
Silly Jon Agee book about a daughter that convinces her dad to stand outside and pretend to be a tree with her. Gentle chaos ensues, and yet the dad stays a tree when he could easily just stop playing a tree. Parts of this book would be really fun to act out during storytime about trees or dads or birds.
March 5, 2024
Agee Assignment #15
Seriously this is a totally nuts story about kid wanting dad to be a tree and the geezer seems to spend the whole day being a tree and having all sorts of creatures attack his person in the name of being a tree!
The kid is clearly insane and well the dad is pretty insane as well - mad enough for people to enjoy.
Seriously this is a totally nuts story about kid wanting dad to be a tree and the geezer seems to spend the whole day being a tree and having all sorts of creatures attack his person in the name of being a tree!
The kid is clearly insane and well the dad is pretty insane as well - mad enough for people to enjoy.
March 6, 2024
Summary: Do you want to be a tree? It's easy. Pretend your arms are branches, your body is a trunk, and your legs are roots. Then stand in one place and see what happens! If your parent is as patient as the dad in this story, you might get to stay outside all ... day ... long! -- inside left jacket flap
June 7, 2023
The little girl convinces her dad to be a tree with her so she can be outside all the time. All sorts of things befall the tree, yet Dad perseveres. When nighttime falls, Dad has had enough. But it was worth the effort. Chuckle worthy. Adorable. And about a dad. Love that.
June 6, 2023
Brief summary: A young girl asks her father to stand with his arms outstretched and become a tree.
This whimsical story continues throughout the day, with more creatures visiting the father and making themselves comfortable as though he were a real tree.
Rating: 3/5 📗📗📗
This whimsical story continues throughout the day, with more creatures visiting the father and making themselves comfortable as though he were a real tree.
Rating: 3/5 📗📗📗
November 2, 2023
Relatable tale of a girl who wants to extend her outdoor time with Dad ….and be a tree! Agee’s genuine (and hilarious) dialogue coupled with his collage-like illustrations make this an entertaining read for all to enjoy.
November 16, 2023
I'm a big fan of Jon Agee. I love how this book depicts the ways in which kids just use their parents' bodies for their own amusement and learning, having no understanding or worry about how uncomfortable or unpleasant it is for the parent.
December 15, 2023
When Madeleine wants to be a tree, her dad is only too happy to oblige. Eventually though, it rains and gets dark, and dad's face shows that he might not be enjoying it as much as Madeline is... A fun tale of kids getting one up on their grownups, and a reminder to be a tree sometimes.
January 16, 2024
Oh, what a heartwarming story about a girl who plays a delightful game of Let’s Pretend with her father! A variety of critters play along, showing what fun it can be to be a tree, especially when your dad has the patience of Job. Adorable illustrations add to the charm.
April 28, 2024
This is a great book for children to read for Father's Day. It is funny and creative. This book encourages children to use their imagination as the characters in the story are doing. The story follows a father who is playing pretend and encouraging his son to pretend to be a tree with him.
April 28, 2023
Classic Jon Agee
May 17, 2023
Fun for family storytime!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews