Our Tree
Jessica Meserve
Little Tiger

When Little Red the squirrel scampers up the trunk of the titular tree uttering, “This tree is all for me” he receives some surprises and several lessons.

Before long the squirrel realises that he is not on his own: animals of all shapes and sizes spend time on or around the tree. They use its branches to rest upon, they nibble its leaves, use it as a place to congregate; Elephant even enjoys using it as a back scratcher but none of these trouble Tree; rather it makes them feel welcome. Little Red has no intention of sharing however and decides to seek a tree of his very own, but in his haste, he slips,

tumbles and lands on something soft.

What follows is a somewhat perilous encounter with a leopard and thereafter a change of heart from Little Red. He finally realises that to be surrounded by friends who are ready to cover your back is extremely valuable. Will his host allow him to stay? Indeed yes and Tree even introduces Little Red to a special new playmate. Undoubtedly, life is better together: community is the way to go.

This message comes across loud and clear from Jessica Meserve’s treasure of a tale with her delicately detailed illustrations. It’s one that shows young humans how important it is to learn to accept others and to share.