Apple and Magnolia
- Subject
- Science & Nature - Environment
- Age
- 3-5 years
- Format
- Hardcover
- Pages
- 40
- Publisher
- Flyaway Books
- Size
- 21.6 cm × 29.2 cm
- ISBN
- 9781947888357
Britta visits her two favorite trees, Apple and Magnolia, every day. Though she can't explain it, she's sure they are best friends! Then one day, Magnolia’s branches start to droop. Is there anything Britta—or Apple—can do to help? After all, unusual friendships can be the most powerful of all.
With a lyrical story and vibrant art, Apple and Magnolia unveils the extraordinary connections between trees and the wondrous bonds between all living things. The book includes an author’s note offering facts about how trees communicate with one another. A downloadable discussion guide with more information will be available February 2022 at flyawaybooks.com/resources.
About the creators
Laura GehlAuthor
Laura Gehl is the author of nearly two dozen picture books, board books, and early readers. Her works have received many accolades and been included on numerous best-of-the-year lists. She lives in Chevy Chase, Maryland. For more information, visit www.lauragehl.com.
Patricia MetolaIllustrator
Patricia Metola has illustrated more than twenty books for children. Her work has been showcased by the Bologna Children's Book Fair on several occasions. She lives in Madrid, Spain.
Data provided by BiblioShare.
What reviewers said
"Nana's assertions about the power of 'unusual friendships' encourage readers to consider this heartwarming tale in both literal and figurative ways. . . .What’s not to love about this endearing and effervescent picture book?"
"Emotive, whimsical illustrations reminiscent of children's drawings enliven this story about the power of friendship."
"Illustrator Patricia Metola brings a delightful crayon-like innocence to her sophisticated skill with color schemes, layout, and transmission of feelings. . . . Apple and Magnolia stands out as a loving way to convey to three-to-seven year olds that unusual friendships have the power to see us through."
"Beautifully told and illustrated, this book is a gem on many levels. The relationship with wise Nana illustrates the importance of intergenerational stories; Britta’s determination shows how strong girls can be, and it shows that we all have an impact on the natural world."
"A sweet story about how love makes a difference, Britta's father and sister are naysayers, but Britta soldiers on and believes in the power of friendship. The text is lyrical and the whimsical illustrations are darling."
More like this

The Apple and the Arrow
Conrad Buff
Masha and the Bear: A Tale from Russia
Lari Don
Ana Cultiva Manzanas / Apple Farmer Annie
Monica Wellington
Churro and the Magician
Gastón Caba
Churro and the Magician
Gastón Caba
Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy
Karen Foxlee
Apple Pie Picnic
Alicia Duran