When a Tree Falls: Nurse Logs and Their Incredible Forest Power

Nurse logs receive much-deserved appreciation in this poetic profile by Pendreigh and Boschinger, which highlights the majestic afterlife of fallen trees. Staccato text describes the starring subject’s early existence: “A lookout,/ an aerie,/ a roost,/ a roof.” After the woody figure tumbles, it takes on a new, critical role as woodland helpmate. Both rhythmic and informative, spare lines communicate the nurse log’s vital role providing nourishment, shelter, and comfort for the forest’s many critters: “Nurse Log mothers them all./ She is a lap,/ a bed,/ a cradle.” Textural, verdant artwork includes an absorbing level of detail in depictions of rough-surfaced bark, fuzzy black bears, and soft layers of lichen and moss. Human figures are portrayed with various skin tones. Back matter discusses the importance of nurse logs to a healthy forest ecosystem. Ages 6–9. (Mar.)