Expressive text and art tell the story of the life cycle of trees as it has never been told before — in reverse.

Here’s a poetic depiction of the life cycle of trees, told one step at a time, based on newly researched information. In simple but evocative text, each step is introduced with “Before . . . ,” making for a rhythmic telling. For example, “Before we stood tall, we clothed ourselves in bark and crowned ourselves in leaves, waving eagerly at the sun.” In a unique twist, the book highlights the underground network of roots and fungus that connects the forest.

Trees and their cycle of life have never been more beautifully — or more lovingly — celebrated.