Zee Grows a Tree

Written by Elizabeth Rusch · Illustrated by Will Hillenbrand

A girl and a tree grow together, sharing life's milestones.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 219 ratings

32 pages· 1,079 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

$17.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Zee Cooper and a Douglas-fir seedling are born on the same day at her family's tree farm. As they grow, they share milestones—starting school, new looks, and seasonal challenges. Zee nurtures her tree through heat and cold, forming a unique bond. This tale blends fiction with facts about tree farming, captivating young nature enthusiasts. Discover how Zee's friendship with her tree offers insights into sustainable holiday traditions.

From the publisher

A fact-filled story about a little girl and an evergreen tree that grow up side by side. Perfect for anyone who loves the natural world–or wonders about the origins of their holiday tree. On the morning little Zee Cooper is born, a Douglas-fir seedling emerges from the nursery bed at her family’s Christmas tree farm. As Zee and the tree grow up together, they experience many of the same milestones. When Zee starts preschool, her tree is ready to start life outside the nursery. As Zee outgrows all her clothes, her tree grows taller, too. When Zee gets a whole new look for kindergarten, her tree gets a spiffy transformation as well. And as the years go on, Zee takes loving care of her tree, watering it through heat waves and protecting it from winter winds. Combining interesting details about how trees are grown and cared for on a farm with the sweet story of a friendship between a girl and her special tree, Zee Grows a Tree offers a blend of fiction and nonfiction that will draw the interest of young nature lovers everywhere. In the back of the book, readers will find an index, bibliography, and an author’s note suggesting some ways to enjoy a holiday tree without cutting one down.

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