Gianferrari, Maria. Just One Oak: What a Single Tree Can Be. Diana Sudyka, Illus. Beach Lane/Simon & Schuster, 04/2026. 48pp. Nonfiction. Trade $19.99. 978-1-6659-61041-2. GRADES Kindergarten–4. OUTSTANDING.
The thoughtful design and comprehensive presentation of the many life forms and processes sustained within the ecosystem of a single oak will captivate a wide range of ages. Integrated visually with the illustrations and carried by a refrain (“Just one oak…”), the text flows gracefully for being read aloud, while also nestling more detailed information within paragraphs of smaller fonts. Full-bleed spreads of dynamic watercolor and gouache inspire curiosity for the small creatures as well as wonder for the all-encompassing nature of the oak tree. Back matter offers further information about the oak’s life cycle, ecology, planting tips, conservation efforts, bibliography, and resources.
Alexandre Petrakis—San Francisco Public Library