You are here

The Sequoia Lives On

Author : Joanna Cooke
Published : 2018-08-07

“These largest trees on earth begin life as seeds about the size of an oatmeal flake yet can grow as tall as three blue whales stacked chin to tail.”

So reads the teaser to this just-released book from the Yosemite Conservancy. And what better time to introduce youngsters to these massive trees, now that the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park has been reopened after three years of restoration work funded in great measure by the Conservancy?

Written by Joanna Cooke and illustrated by Fiona Hsieh, this book for kids ages 4 to 7 is the perfect introduction to sequoias before a hike into the Mariposa Grove, or into the Giant Forest of nearby Sequoia National Park.

The author traces the life of sequoias, explains how fire can open the cones that hold the seeds, and points out that “a large sequoia’s roots absorb enough water to fill more than eight bathtubs” every day.

Hsieh’s colorful and dramatic illustrations are enough by themselves to entice youngsters into the sequoia groves.

Parents haven’t been neglected by Cooke, who provides more detailed information in the back of the 32-page book on where sequoias live, how big some of the famous trees (General Sherman, for instance) really are, and how the trees absorb nutrients.

If your kids need to be drawn into the woods, this is a great introduction. And if they are curious about the natural world around them, The Sequoia Lives On would be a great addition to their young library.

Add comment

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.