Rooted is a gentle and heartwarming children’s book told from the perspective of an old oak tree named Dendro, who reflects on life, growth, loss, and love as he mentors a younger tree, Vince. Through seasons of change and challenges like storms, fires, and even bark beetles, Dendro shares wisdom gained over the years. Each chapter feels like a life lesson wrapped in leafy metaphors, and the whole story reads like a cozy fireside chat with your grandpa.

What I loved most about this picture book is how simple yet deep it is. I loved the scene where Dendro helps Vince welcome baby birds into his branches. Vince is hesitant at first. He’s not sure he wants the chaos of chirping chicks. But Dendro gently nudges him to see the joy in giving shelter. It’s such a sweet metaphor for parenthood, or mentorship, or just being there for someone even when it’s inconvenient. And later, when the birds leave, Vince feels that familiar pang of loss.

Another part that really stayed with me was the fire. The way Cranston writes about it, quick, scary, no warning, felt like how real-life tragedies hit. The tension builds fast, and Dendro’s panic for Vince is real. And when Vince says he still hears the crackling weeks later? That felt like a nod to trauma, how it lingers even after the danger’s passed. But there’s hope too. Green sprouts return. Forest friends come back. The illustrations in Rooted are absolutely charming. They’re soft, warm, and full of heart. They do such a lovely job of bringing the trees to life, especially Dendro. You can really see his emotions.

Rooted feels like a gentle hug in book form. It’s for anyone who’s been through something hard and needs a quiet reminder that scars mean survival. I’d recommend it to middle-grade readers, teachers, or honestly, any adult who loves a good metaphor and needs a slow, thoughtful read to remind them of life’s cycles.

Pages: 27 | ASIN: B0DFR2H644