TOGETHER, A FOREST

Nature thrives on diversity, and so do we.

When a class of students venture into a forest for a field trip, light-skinned Joy’s initial enthusiasm turns to anxiety. How will she choose just one thing to focus on for the class art project? But she soon realizes that her classmates’ unique perspectives are collectively creating a fuller understanding and appreciation of nature. The class includes children of various skin tones and abilities, mirroring the natural diversity they discover in the forest. As she did in More Than Words (2023), the author helps readers see that differences are gifts. As Joy and her classmates examine various aspects of the forest, from flowers and fungi to towering trees, parallels emerge between ecological interdependence and human physio- and neurodiversity. Accompanied by visually enticing, evocative mixed-media illustrations, the narrative weaves between concrete observations and abstract concepts, offering numerous entry points for young readers to consider how differences strengthen both natural and human communities. Rich scientific information on the endpapers and throughout provides additional context that invites deeper exploration, though the wealth of content and concepts occasionally prioritizes messaging over storytelling momentum. Enlightening backmatter includes explanations about neurodiversity and the author’s personal connection to disability advocacy.

A thoughtful reflection on belonging that celebrates diverse minds and bodies in our interconnected world.