A Tree Is a Home

K-Gr 4–This book is a treasure trove of information on the habitat and life cycle of trees. A mature oak tree provides a home for different animals, and six animals are highlighted in this book. Each spread features a season and what changes occur in the tree, as well as each animal’s the life cycle. The story starts by presenting where each animal lives and what happens during the fall. Small panels spotlight each critter—a raccoon, gray squirrel, blue jay, acorn weevil, chipmunk, and opossum. The mixed media illustrations have a soft, almost vintage feel to them. The back matter includes diagrams on the life cycle that will reinforce key concepts from the narrative about the animals and oak tree. Educators will be delighted by the range of key topics and will be able to develop lots of lessons with the book as an anchor text.