How to read the story of a tree

Bestselling author Tristan Gooley opens the gates for readers to the little-known world of trees, as well as to the realm of miracles in the nature all around us. Trees talk to us. They convey important information about what they have in common with the soil, water, humans and other living creatures, with the weather and the passage of time. And also about their own lives, about the good and bad things they have experienced or are experiencing. Trees want to tell us their stories, but we must learn how to read them.

In the book How to Read a Tree, Tristan Gooley reveals clues, keys and signs that are hidden in plain sight. He teaches us to read the branches and leaves of a tree, its bark, buds and flowers, and even its stump. Is there water nearby? Is the tree facing any problems? How can we recognise new growth from the bark? What does the shape of the tree, its branches, or the leaves blown at the base of the trunk tell us?

Every tree is unique – no two are exactly the same, much like snowflakes or, for that matter, us humans. Every difference reveals an exciting story the tree has lived. All you need to do is stop and look closely.