The Magic and Mystery of Trees (The Magic and Mystery of the Natural World) by Jen Green is a beautiful, engaging nonfiction picture book for children ages 7–9. Published by DK (Dorling Kindersley) in association with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), it combines stunning illustrations with clear, accessible science to show just how amazing and important trees really are.
What the Book CoversThe book takes young readers on a leafy journey through the hidden world of trees. It explains:

  • How trees grow from tiny seeds into towering giants
  • The amazing “wood wide web” — how trees communicate and share nutrients with each other through underground fungal networks
  • How trees defend themselves against insects and disease
  • The life cycle of a tree, including flowers, fruits, seeds, and leaves
  • Different types of trees and forests around the world
  • The vital role trees play in giving us oxygen, cleaning the air, providing homes for animals, and fighting climate change
  • Fun and surprising tree facts (for example, some trees can live for thousands of years, and certain species “talk” to warn each other of danger)

Each spread is packed with eye-catching photos, diagrams, and cutaway illustrations that make complex ideas easy to understand.Why Kids Love It

  • Gorgeous visuals — Bright, detailed photographs and illustrations make every page inviting.
  • Easy-to-read text — Short paragraphs and friendly explanations keep it from feeling like a textbook.
  • Wonder and discovery — The book turns ordinary trees into magical, living beings with families, friendships, and clever survival tricks.
  • Hands-on feel — It encourages kids to look at trees differently when they go outside.

Tone & StyleThe tone is warm, excited, and full of wonder. Jen Green writes in a clear, engaging way that respects a child’s intelligence without talking down to them. The book feels like a celebration of nature rather than a dry lesson.

Who It’s For

  • Children aged 7–9 who love nature, science, or outdoor exploration
  • Families who enjoy reading together about the natural world
  • Classrooms or homeschool lessons on plants, ecosystems, or environmental science
  • Anyone who wants to help kids appreciate trees and why protecting them matters

In short, The Magic and Mystery of Trees is a delightful, informative book that reveals trees as far more than just “plants in the background.” It shows them as incredible, interconnected living beings that support life on Earth in countless ways. With its beautiful pictures and fascinating facts, it turns a simple walk in the woods into an exciting adventure.Perfect for curious kids who ask “why” and “how” questions about the natural world. It’s an excellent addition to any child’s nature or science shelf.