How to Be More Tree: Essential Life Lessons for Perennial Happiness

This beautifully illustrated book brings together sixty essential life lessons inspired by the infinite wisdom of trees. Trees do not have brains to think with, or nervous systems that cause them to feel things, and yet they are undeniably clever. From their ability to adapt, to their understanding of the strength of networks and mutually beneficial relationships, they put us to shame with their natural ability to thrive, even when they find themselves in less than ideal environments.

We learn about the importance of forward-planning from the Chinese bamboo tree, which seemingly doesn’t grow at all for the first four years of its life, before shooting 80 feet upwards in six weeks; in those four years, it is in fact growing an amazingly strong underground root network to support sudden growth. And acacias, who look out for each other by producing a gas when they’re being nibbled on by herbivores to warn their nearby friends.

From the importance of patience, to drawing strength from others, to weathering the storm, to dealing with life’s most persistent irritants - this is a celebration of the heroes of the forest, and an essential companion for dipping into when we need a little inspiration.