Age range 3 to 6
A moving tale of love, fear, and the courage of letting go.
Beyond the hill where the tree lives, lies Who Knows Where. Every year when the wind blows, the tree’s seeds sail to this mysterious place—until the day an especially tiny seed decides to remain on its branch. At first, the tree feels the seed should leave. If it doesn’t, it will never grow roots of its own. But the tree also feels lonely, and Who Knows Where is…who knows?
This strikingly illustrated picture book celebrates the rhythms of the natural world as it gently reminds parents and children that letting go and being brave can lead to life’s greatest adventures.
About the Author
Cristiana Valentini is a children's book author who works in animation in addition to writing for children and contributing to fashion magazines. Her first children's books were published with ZooLibri in Italy, where she is based. Stay, Little Seed remains her most loved book. Phillip Giordano is an illustrator and animator whose work has been selected for the American illustration Annual, Communication Arts Illustration Annual, 3x3 Illustration Annual, and the Applied Arts Photography & Illustration Awards. His illustrations have received international recognition and awards including the Silver Medal by the Society of Illustrators; the White Raven Award; and the International Illustration Prize, Bologna.
Industry Reviews
"Careful nurturing begets the launch into the unknown: Valentini celebrates both as natural and fitting."
-Kirkus Reviews
"A cute, sentimental tale that will appeal to those who love The Giving Tree."
-School Library Journal
"[Stay, Little Seed] is about the rhythms of the natural world but it is also about growing up and letting go; a lovely tale of seasons and growth and change."
-Book Riot
"Both children and adult readers will identify with [Stay Little Seed's] timeless themes, from the joy in comforting familial bonds to the growth that can only happen with independence."
-Booklist
"Stay, Little Seedencourages readers to be courageous enough to let go and experience new adventures in life."
-Books to Borrow, Books to Buy
"A moving story about the power of letting go.... We loved this book! Such a touching message for adults and kids alike. Valentini approaches this in very natural and gentle way. With lovely illustrations that are so sweet, and special detail to the cover."
-Bookalong
"This one is a memorable story for young and old alike about letting go and trying the new. It's one I won't soon forget."
-Booknerd Mommy
