The Different Tree, from Reycraft Books, Explores and Celebrates Individuality
The picture book tells the story of a tree that moves through the life cycle at its own pace, and the benefits that come with it.
NEW ROCHELLE, NY, Sep. 3, 2024— Leading children’s trade publisher Reycraft Books is pleased to announce the publication of The Different Tree, a new picture book written by award-winning journalist and children’s book author Elisa Boxer and illustrated by Marieke Nelissen. Published on September 3, 2024, the book uses touching metaphors and vibrant images to tell the story of an oak tree that represents individuality, neurodiversity, and interconnectedness in nature.
In the story, the oak tree is unlike the other trees that stand around her. As the leaves of the other trees turn brown, die, and fall to the ground with the coming of winter, the oak holds on to her leaves, defying nature and confounding the neighboring trees, the wind, the birds, the ground in which she is rooted—and even herself. All the oak knows is that she isn't ready to let go. In time, she comes to understand that a lot of good can come from not being exactly like everyone else.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elisa Boxer is an Emmy-winning journalist and the author of numerous acclaimed nonfiction children’s books. Her writing has been featured in publications including The New York Times and Fast Company. She is particularly passionate about telling true stories of brave people daring to be different. Elisa lives in Maine with her family, surrounded by all of the trees and animals seen in The Different Tree.
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:
Marieke Nelissen lived in Mexico and Costa Rica when she was young and is now based in The Netherlands. Her influences come from cultures around the world, but she is most inspired by nature and feels a deep love for everything that blooms and grows—especially trees. Natural media is key to Marieke’s individual style. By building up forms with layer upon layer of gouache, she gives her images a sense of volume and physicality.
Boxer explained that she could relate to trees that operate at their own pace. I know I personally stand taller and feel stronger when I'm honoring my individuality, rather than comparing my progress to that of my cohorts, she said. The author also noted, My son has high-functioning autism. Like many of his peers, he requires more time than is typical to do things like transition between tasks, complete assignments, and adjust to new situations.
Boxer expressed her enthusiasm for the colorful, realistic illustrations by Nelissen and how they enhanced the story. I want to frame every page, she said. Marieke's level of detail astounds me. Her illustrations bring the book to life in a way that is more powerful than I could have imagined. Her art is deep and evocative and is at once lifelike and larger-than-life.
In writing The Different Tree, Boxer said her goal was to help shine a light on the gift of neurodiversity. Plus, she added, labels aside, we all hold on and let go at different rates. I believe it's important to trust our own timing, and that of those around us.
ABOUT REYCRAFT BOOKS: Reycraft Books partners with award-winning and up-and-coming authors and illustrators, primarily from underrepresented communities, to provide high-quality books that delight, inform, and honor the voice and vision of all children. Founded in 2019, the imprint publishes authentic stories—engaging picture books, transitional chapter books, middle grade books, graphic novels, and more—that build knowledge, perspective, and connection, meeting the diverse needs of children, families, and educators.