One day a large white creature floats to shore and tries to find shelter and safety in an old cave. The animals of the Wild Wood fear him at first and name him Leaf because they observe him gathering leaves and because they want him to leave. They are divided by what they regard as Leaf’s strange behaviour but gradually come to understand that this bewildered polar bear (for that is what he is, although this is not stated until the story nears its close) just wants to get home.
A picture book which draws on themes about the environment, prejudice against those who seem different and learning to communicate, illustrated in a manner which combines the naturalistic and the fantastic.
When a polar bear arrives unexpectedly in the woods, the other animals fear and avoid him, suspecting him to be dangerous - and his odd habit of collecting leaves only adds to their distrust. Then one day, they watch as he attempts to fly over the water with wings made of colourful leaves... trying to get back home. Perhaps he isn't so different after all?
Leaf draws on themes about the environment, prejudice against those who seem different and learning to communicate, illustrated in a way which combines the naturalistic and the fantastic. - CLPE
The balance of whimsical colors and deep blue ocean sets this book apart. - Ravaliabhiram on Instagram
This is a really lovely story with an important message and the illustrations are simply stunning. - Hookable_books on Instagram
A lovely story about difference, fear and resilience. - @bees_circus on Instagram
The way key environmental messages are entwined with the themes of community and acceptance is masterful. - @brassoteach on Twitter
This is such a gorgeous story with not only beautiful and striking illustrations but such a meaningful message (.) A definite must read! -- @thewilsonuk on Instagram
Author
About Sandra Dieckmann
Sandra Dieckmann is a London-based artist, illustrator and potter. She is best known for her colourful, patterned and intricate drawings of nature and wildlife. In 2011 Sandra was chosen by Oscar-winning animator and illustrator Shaun Tan as the Emerging Talent in Illustration for her image 'Fox Tree'. She runs a hugely succesful Etsy store and also sells her work through her studio, Mama Wolf, in East London.
