Lisa Robinson (4)

Calmness, serenity and discovery are sure to be found with every step through this read and nature.

Kayla's excited as her father joins her on a picnic, but he can't seem to get his nose away from his cell phone. She finally lures him into a walk into the forest and marvels at the wonderful atmosphere. Little by little and with a tiny trick, maybe Kayla can find a way for them both to see how marvelous the forest is.

While the father will put smirks on the faces as children and reader both identify with his cell phone obsession, this book isn't really centered on this theme and holds more. This book is about the atmosphere and enjoyment a walk through the forest provides. Kayla tugs her father through the trees, making small discoveries along the way. She stops and enjoys. To highlight these pauses and breaths, the author slides in small poems, which meld right along with the story. It's a clever way to bring the atmosphere of 'taking in the surroundings' across.

The illustrations flow as natural as the forest. As Kayla discovers moss, creeks and more, the listeners dive into the world right along with her. There were quite a few bare/dead (?) trees in this forest, which made me stop and wonder, but that's just a stray thought of mine. These will have listeners wanting to take a journey to the great outdoors themselves. At the end of the book, there is also a little information surrounding the theme of 'forest bathing', and yes, seems to be a true term. It's a lovely read, especially now as Spring has awakened and invites outdoors. I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed the forest walk quite a bit.… (meer)