About this book

So much to see, to smell, to hear, to taste, to feel. So much to find… in the forest.

Using evocative storytelling, Nell Cross Beckerman leads readers on an exciting adventure through the magic of forests! From kelp forests on the ocean floor to the wonders of the Amazon, Beckerman guides readers through these tree-filled ecosystems using dramatic, poetic language. Nonfiction text on every page allows for a deeper understanding of the topic.

Illustrator Kalen Chock's stunning illustrations have been praised as "atmospheric" and "striking." Readers will be delighted as each spread brings a surprise.

Extensive backmatter includes author's and illustrator's notes, additional information on planting trees, and fun facts about forests!

The first book in this series, Caves, received three starred reviews, was an NCTE Orbis Pictus Recommended Title, was on the Texas Bluebonnet Master List and the Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List, and was a Kirkus Best Book of the Year.

An ideal choice for nature lovers, future explorers, and fans of Jason Chin and Kate Messner.

Reviews

Praise for Forests:

* "The beauty and visual depth that inform Chock’s stately forest scenes, rich in color and photographically exact in detail, find suitable echoes in Beckerman’s alliterative, sensual free verse. ...A spellbinding tour, deeply rooted in both fact and feeling." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Praise for Caves:

2023 NCTE Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children -- Recommended Title

2023 NCTE Notable Children’s Books in the Language Arts Award List

2024-2025 Texas Blue Bonnet Master List

2024 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List

Kirkus Best Book of the Year

New York Public Library Best Book of 2022

Bank Street Books Best Book

2025 Illinois Bluestem Readers’ Choice Award Nominee

* "Powerfully atmospheric illustrations... Tantalizing glimpes of hidden natural treasures, with breathtaking art." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

* "Would-be spelunkers and those who would never consider a trip into a cave have the potential to be launched on a lifelong journey of discovery into the amazing world of caves as depicted in this excellent title. Highly recommended." -- School Library Journal, starred review

* "Cross Beckerman injects genuine passion into this nonfiction examination of caves... In a striking picture book debut... Chock combines realistic-looking rock surfaces with softly shaded adult and child figures overwhelmed by the natural features." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review