I'm Afraid, Said the Leaf [Hardcover]

A touching, playful exploration of empathy and interdependency from an acclaimed author and illustrator.

I’m afraid, Said the leaf. / You’re not alone, Said the tree. But who will comfort a nervous bird, a lonely crab, a lost wolf? How can a horse find warmth, a snail some cheer, a child some rest? Through a series of amusing and soothing exchanges, this deceptively simple and profound picture book depicts different pairings to celebrate interconnectedness and underlines the importance of caring for every living organism to ensure a strong and healthy natural world. I’m Afraid, Said the Leaf invites young readers to understand that we all need each other for support and survival — and that we're all stronger together.Nominated for the 2024 Governor General's Literary Award for Young People — Illustrated Text!
Shortlisted for the Canadian Children's Book Centre's Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award, 2025
One of CCBC’s Best Books for Kids and Teens

PRAISE FOR I'm Afraid, Said the Leaf:

Every worry is addressed and every need is met in this eloquent portrait of the interconnectedness of the living world. —STARRED REVIEW, Publishers Weekly

[T]he art renders the tale truly universal. —Kirkus Reviews

The perfect book for any young reader who'd rather read outside. —Booklist

Gentle, rhythmic text and richly expressive illustrations combine to create a deeply layered picture book where words and images flow together in perfect harmony. A gem of a book that invites wonder, reflection and comfort. —Canadian Cl3#