When Emilia finds a walnut one morning, Grandpa tells her the story behind it: of his journey across the ocean to a new home, with only one small bag and a nut in his pocket.    

I planted my little tree in good brown soil, so it would grow strong here forever.   

In this house? In this yard?   

Shall we go see?    

Step by step, Grandpa teaches Emilia how to cultivate her own seed. But as her little nut grows, Grandpa begins to slow down-until one sad day, Emilia has to say goodbye. Emilia’s sapling looks as droopy as she feels … but she knows just what to do.   

From acclaimed author and illustrator Ammi-Joan Paquette and Felicita Sala, this tender story is a poignant reminder that the best things grow with time-and that even when they are no longer here, the ones we love are always a part of us.