"Hannah and the Talking Tree' is a children s book specially designed to plant the seeds of environmental activism in the next generation. Printed on recycled paper. Gold Medal winner of the 2010 Moonbeam Children's Book Awards. Hannah is a little girl with a special and unique gift. She has very, very big ears which enable her to hear things in the world all around her that other people do not notice.She can hear the grass grow, the wind sing, and the ants march one by one. She can hear birds chirping far away and even hear the trees drinking water. Unfortunately, she is teased and criticized by other children and runs away to be alone. With her extra special powers she finds and befriends a very special and solitary tree and learns about the tragic fate of the trees around her. And now the last tree is threatened as well. Is there any way to save the lone tree from destruction? Will anyone listen to Hannah's cry for help? Instead of just giving up and letting the last tree get cut down, Hannah decides to be brave and do something herself to help save the last tree and create a world worthwhile living in. 'This book touched our hearts in a special way, showing strength, courage, empathy and love in a short children's story. We felt a kinship with Hannah immediately for her inner strength and compassion. Hannah has a sweet sensitive nature but is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. Not only does this book show children that it is OK to be different, but it also shows that it's good to be heard to and to listen not only to ourselves but others and the earth. Hannah helps us understand ourselves a little better and how we can impact the environment in a positive way. Her empathy is also palpable, in a world void of much empathy it is important to help children understand what it is to care for others.' --RANDI MICHELLE, Mommyreview.com Hannah and the Talking Tree is a refreshing story about a child who adores the outdoors and especially the beauty of a special tree. To have a book written depicting children actually playing outside and appreciating nature is definitely needed during these technological sedentary times. With obesity and diabetes rates aggressively rising, children need to read about the joys of exploring this vast paradise that is found right outside the door. With Hannah s exceptional gift of big ears she has the ability to totally enjoy the intricate sounds of nature that this hustle bustle world fails to hear. During times of rejection, Hannah finds solace as she mingles with her friends and flows to the song of the wind. Isn t this the play we all once enjoyed? Play...good old fashioned PLAY! Refreshing! --Ruth Kitchen, Greening Youth Foundation 'This is a charming book for your youngsters about being different, learning to listen and the importance of saving the trees on our planet. It is a cute and colorful story about a little girl named Hannah who is different than others because of her big ears, but those ears can hear things that most can't. Hannah learns how she should help save the trees and how to get others to help. This is an environmental story that your children will love to hear. The Dove seal for all ages is awarded to this wonderful children's book.' --Dove Family Foundation
About the Author: Elke Weiss strives to teach children how important it is to care for our environment. Hannah and the Talking Tree is a wonderful way to give children an understanding of the environment and value the development of a healthy sense of curiosity for nature. This book is not only about environment and acting to make change, it has the simple goal to get kids out into nature so they don t lose touch with the world around us. Elke Weiss grew up in Bavaria, Germany running bare feet over meadows, climbing trees and mountains. She has working experience as a writer, illustrator, designer, animator and filmmaker.