Something small,
green,
and very unexpected
is about to help an on-the-go family
put down some roots,
and maybe — just maybe —
feel a little slower,
a little cozier,
a little more
at home.

“By the conclusion of this gently humorous and thoroughly recognizable tale for today’s overprogrammed families, a sense of calm and connectivity has spread through this family. Readers who feel the frantic pace of modern life will be left wishing for a tree to take root in their own kitchens … An absolute winner with comic touches and tenderness that will speak to a generation of readers who are part of families that are ‘on the go’ and yet looking for an alternative to the pace of modern life. Highly recommended.“ – School Library Journal (starred review)

“Collaborators Garton Scanlon and Vernick highlight the importance of mindfully slowing down in this grounding account of a tree that sprouts up in the middle of a family’s residence and refocuses their priorities. The nature-centered payoff—stargazing, leaf-peeping, enjoying hobbies in a dreamy new spot, plus a literal and metaphorical sense of rootedness—feels meaningfully perspicacious.”– Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Scanlon and Vernick depict a protagonist worth emulating; the determined, self-assured, and green-thumbed Penny proves an aspirational figure, capable of energizing similarly precocious readers with a tenacity that verges on the mythical … A tale sure to encourage readers to gather around and enjoy one another’s company.”—Kirkus Reviews

“A gentle tone and delicate humor allow the text to push for and celebrate family togetherness without harshly judging Penny and her parents for being busy people with busy lives. The family tree analogy is present as subtext but not overworked and mostly visually presented: the tree’s roots anchor into the ground as much as its branches spread out, a reminder that growth and blossoming start with a steady foundation.”--The Bulletin for the Center of Children’s Books