Tammy Cranston’s Rooted is a heartfelt and whimsical children’s book about resilience, change, and connection, told from the unique perspective of a tree named Dendro. Through his watchful eyes, we witness the cycles of life in the forest—stormy seasons, the growth of new friendships, and the struggles of nature. Dendro interacts with a little seedling, a devoted mother robin, and a lively critter named Rocco, all while navigating his own growth, challenges, and emotions. It’s a beautifully simple yet deeply reflective tale about embracing change and standing strong in life’s storms.

I loved how Rooted took something as quiet and still as a tree and made it feel so alive. Dendro is emotionally invested in the world around him. When the mother robin builds a nest in his branches, he has a choice—to embrace her presence or push her away. He chooses kindness, and in return, he gains a front-row seat to the miracle of life. There’s something touching about how he protects the nest from the sneaky rat snake, trembling with tension as he signals Rocco to step in.

One of the most striking moments in the book is when the baby birds finally leave the nest. After days of noise and motion, suddenly, there’s silence, and instead of relief, Dendro feels a strange sadness. That hit me hard. I also found myself chuckling at the seedling’s endless questions. The little one is so full of curiosity and complaints, but instead of indulging in negativity, Dendro gently guides him toward focusing on growth. It’s such a great metaphor for the way we should handle our own worries.

The illustrations bring so much life to the story, and I loved how expressive the characters are. The artwork adds an extra layer of charm that makes the book feel even more immersive and heartfelt.

I’d recommend Rooted to anyone who enjoys fable-like picture books with a gentle but meaningful message. It’s perfect for young readers but just as impactful for adults who appreciate nature’s quiet wisdom. If you’ve ever felt stuck, uncertain, or nostalgic for something that’s changed, this book will speak to you.

Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DJKDBF4Z