Stretch to the Sun

From a Tiny Sprout to the Tallest Tree on Earth

A story of survival.

A story of strength.

Stretch to the Sun: From a Tiny Sprout to the Tallest Tree on Earth is a narrative nonfiction picture book about the tallest tree on earth. For over 1200 years, this giant coast redwood has survived enormous natural challenges but its biggest adversaries — and saviors — were people.

Through this “tree-ography,” learn about the amazingly rich canopy ecosystem that exists hundreds of feet in the air and far beyond our limited sight from the forest floor. This book will appeal to fans of ecoliteracy, nature, trees, and forest creatures and those who are interested in the social history of saving ancient species for the next generations.

Praise

  • Recipient of a silver Eureka! Award from the California Reading Association for “outstanding nonfiction.”
  • ​Great Lakes, Great Reads Award 2019-2020 nominee

“Lyrical and gentle text, with a bit of understated repetition, sets the scene; this work begs to be read aloud.” —School and Library Journal review

“I think your story, Stretch to the Sun, along with Susan Swan’s illustrations will be a captivating read for young minds. In addition to the story of the survival of the tallest tree, you’ve woven the basics of ecology in a coast redwood forest, including how the dominating ancient trees become vertical layers of habitat for both plants and animals.  The illustrations convey the deepness and intricacy of the ancient redwood forest.  For a young person, the book may spark an interest they carry throughout their lives.” —James Wheeler, 30 year Park Ranger/Interpreter, Redwood National and State Parks

“A richly illustrated story of an amazing tree, this is a great addition to STEM storytimes and outdoor investigations. Children will be eager to search for the animals hidden in the leafy art and the poetic text will make a good read-aloud for strong listeners.” —​Jennifer the Librarian, Jean Little Library, Verdict

For a personalized inscription, purchase through Snowbound Books (Carrie’s local bookstore) and add a note at Checkout: