By Tony Orman
The tree is a living ecosystem in itself and depending on the species, host and/or food source to a variety of wildlife from birds to insects to lizards and even others like fungi and parasitic plants.
A talented writer and illustrator
Author of over 200 youngster’s books, mostly on wildlife, Dave Gunson is very talented as he also illustrates his books with detailed and delightful illustrations.
Visual impact is so vital to initially stimulating a kid’s interest and in maintaining it throughout. Dave Gunson succeeds admirably in his latest book on trees and the assortment of wildlife that depend on that tree.
A wonderful insight into trees and their ecosystems
Dave Gunson gives a fascinating insight into both native and introduced trees and the complexity of the ecosystem around a tree.
A tree has its own community of wildlife that may be birds, animals, insects, plants and fungi. Perhaps the creatures and associated plants and fungi live happily together, or perhaps predator-prey relationships are paramount.
The book gives brief but informative thumbnail verbal sketches, plus delightful illustrations, of birds like the fantail, kereru (wood pigeon), blackbird, grey warbler, tomtit, kōkako, guru (morepork) and others.
Similarly with invertebrates such as ladybirds, aphids, praying mantis, wetas and others, a surprising number I had never heard of e.g. shore skink, forest gecko, flower spider and two-spined spider, elephant weevil and others.
Not just for kids
This book is just not for kids; adults will learn much from it too. It’s yet another book for youngsters by the very talented award winning artist and writer Dave Gunson.
I say “yet another” for Dave Gunson has written an incredible 200 plus books that usually focus on New Zealand’s wildlife. His latest is not just educational but especially revealing of the place of trees in the ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on them.
Aimed by the publishers at 8 to 12 year olds, I’d reiterate it’s such good value information-wise that not only youngsters but adults will learn things they never knew, about trees and the life about trees.
The tree is a living ecosystem in itself and depending on the species, host and/or food source to a variety of wildlife from birds to insects to lizards and even others like fungi and parasitic plants.
This book is a winner and will nurture in youngsters – tomorrow’s adult citizens – an appreciation of trees and their vital value. Highly recommended.
The Living Tree: a New Zealand habitat by Dave Gunson is published by Bateman books, Recommended Retail Price $24.99