The Perfect Tree by Chloe Bonfield (Running Press Kids)

A beautifully written folk tale with awesome illustrations and a good solid stoat-oak-hearted message to convey? Perfect indeed!
"The Perfect Tree" by Chloe Bonfield sets the reader on an amazing journey, accompanying Jack on a quest deep into the dark forest. Jack sets out to find "The Perfect Tree", to chop, to hack and to stack.

Jack's journey of discovery begins as he meets the animals and birds who call the forest their home. Each has their own unique idea of what the perfect tree would be like. Crawling with life to feed hungry birds, or with a dry cosy hollow for hiding acorns in to see a squirrel through the bitter winter.

As Jack continues, he begins to wonder what would happen if everyone came to the forest to take the trees down - and what would happen to all those animals and birds who rely on trees for safety, shelter and food.

So Jack's quest changes. Jack is no longer looking for the perfect tree to chop, hack and stack - he's now looking for the perfect tree to climb, to love, to hug and to protect!

Chloe's animation background might explain why the gorgeous illustrations in this story really reminded me of classic paperwork and stop motion animation I used to love growing up as a kid.

Certainly it impressed the socks off Charlotte who loved the intricate and delicate little worlds that Chloe has created for the illustrative page spreads.

They help to lend the book just the right atmosphere to convey the deep darkness of the forest and the skittish characters therein.

We really truly hope that lots of people discover this book and love it as much as we do. You can find out more about Chloe over at her website: http://cargocollective.com/chloebonfield

Charlotte's favourite bit: The squirrel's amazing hidey-hole with a huge collection of acorns to scoff. Yum!

Daddy's favourite bit: A book chock full of glorious atmosphere and with a really beautiful eco message at its heart. A hugely accomplished piece of work that Chloe should be very proud of.

(Kindly sent to us for review by Chloe Bonfield / Running Press)

"The Perfect Tree"

Written and Illustrated by Chloe Bonfield

Published by Running Press Kids

Publication Date (Hardback): December 2015