The Different Tree

2025 Maine Literary Award for Children's Book There was always something different about that tree . . . While the rest of the forest's trees shed their leaves for the winter, an oak tree hangs onto her dried, brown leaves. So stubborn, the wind whispers. "What's she waiting for?", the birds chitter. "Doesn't she know the rules?", the other trees sigh. But the oak tree must wait, even though she does not yet know why. With vibrant illustrations and touching metaphors, The Different Tree is nature's reminder to honor individuality and move at your own pace.